Apple Unveils Upgraded Siri with AI: Hidden Limitations and Costs

The upgraded Siri now supports more natural conversations and can process complex requests using internet data and app context. For instance, the assistant can find restaurant recommendations from messages or remind users about hotel bookings from emails. Siri has also learned to edit photos, draft emails, and even help plan events based on messenger discussions.

Apple highlighted that the new Siri is built on proprietary machine learning models, operating both on-device and in the cloud via Private Cloud Compute for enhanced data security. However, the presentation revealed that certain features, including image generation, will have daily limits. Unlocking these restrictions will require an iCloud+ subscription, which also grants access to expanded Apple Intelligence support for compatible devices.

The beta version of AI-powered Siri will launch later this year for English-language users. Supported devices include iPhone 16 and newer, iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max, iPads with M1 chips and later, and Mac computers with M-series chips. Due to EU regulatory requirements, the update will not be available in iOS 27 and iPadOS 27 within the EU but will roll out in macOS 27 and other operating systems. China was also excluded from the initial release.