Apple is set to roll out the developer beta of its next-generation voice assistant, Siri 2.0, marking a major step forward in how users interact with their devices through artificial intelligence.
The redesigned assistant will arrive as part of the iOS 26.4 update and is powered by Apple Foundation Model v10, a 1.2 trillion parameter system developed through a landmark partnership with Google. The new architecture is designed to deliver deeper reasoning, improved contextual awareness, and more autonomous task execution.
Unlike previous iterations, Siri 2.0 introduces smart agent capabilities that allow the assistant to understand personal context and perform complex, multi-step actions. With user permission, Siri can securely access information across messages, calendars, and photos, enabling it to complete tasks such as locating a specific file, referencing relevant conversations, and sending the item through a third-party app.
Apple’s shift toward a more agent-like assistant reflects a broader strategy to make Siri less reactive and more proactive, positioning it as a digital helper that can manage workflows rather than respond only to isolated commands.
The developer beta is expected to become available during the week of February 23. A public beta is scheduled to follow in March, giving a wider group of users early access to test the new features.
Apple is targeting a full public release of Siri 2.0 in late March or early April 2026, alongside the broader iOS 26.4 rollout. If successful, the update could redefine Siri’s role within the Apple ecosystem and intensify competition in the rapidly evolving AI assistant market.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
