Apple's Tim Cook to unveil AI-powered Siri in potential final WWDC keynote

Tim Cook, nearing the end of his 15-year tenure as CEO of Apple, is set to unveil a significantly upgraded Siri infused with generative artificial intelligence at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2026. This announcement is anticipated to be his last major product reveal as head of the company.

The introduction of generative AI into Siri is seen as a critical move to close what many perceive as a gap in Apple's artificial intelligence offerings. Competitors such as Amazon's Alexa, Microsoft, and Google have made significant strides in AI, particularly with the advent of generative AI technologies following the revolution sparked by ChatGPT in 2022. Apple's previous AI efforts, like the initial launch of Siri with the iPhone 4S in 2011, have been surpassed by the advancements of rivals.

At the WWDC, Apple is expected to present new versions of its operating systems, including iOS 27, macOS 27, iPadOS 27, and watchOS 27. Unlike previous years where the focus was on introducing numerous new features, this year's event is reportedly concentrating on refining existing functionalities. The goal is to enhance ease of use and overall effectiveness across Apple's ecosystem, improving processes such as app launch speed, photo sharing, and content search.

Following the public announcement, these new operating systems will enter a beta testing phase before their official release in September, coinciding with the launch of the new iPhone 18 and 18 Pro models. However, Tim Cook will not be present for the iPhone launch event, as John Ternus is scheduled to succeed him as CEO on September 1. Cook has been at the helm since Steve Jobs' final public appearance in September 2011, shortly before his death.