Apple Plans AI-Powered Siri Search Using Google Technology for 2026 Overhaul

Apple is developing a major AI-powered overhaul of its Siri virtual assistant, introducing a new web search feature internally called "World Knowledge Answers" that aims to rival competitors like OpenAI, Perplexity, and Google. This feature will combine web crawling, search, and language models to provide AI-generated summaries enriched with text, images, videos, and local points of interest, and is planned for release in spring 2026 as part of the iOS 26.4 update. Apple has recently formalized a partnership with Google to pilot Google's Gemini AI model to power Siri's new search summaries, while also exploring its own AI models and alternatives like Anthropic's Claude for different aspects of Siri's functionality. Beyond search, the upgraded Siri will better understand user context, read on-screen content, and perform actions within apps by integrating a planner, search system, and summarizer to deliver more conversational and accurate responses. The new AI capabilities may later expand to other key iPhone features such as Safari and Spotlight, marking a significant shift in how Apple handles search and voice assistant interactions. This collaboration with Google and the advanced AI integration reflect Apple's attempt to catch up in the evolving AI landscape, enhancing Siri's relevance against rapidly advancing AI competitors.