Apple finally showed off the AI-powered version of Siri that it first teased years ago. And after testing it out, some early users say it actually works. It can now handle complicated questions, follow multiple instructions in one go, and dig through your personal data like notes, photos, and emails to give you relevant answers.
Unfortunately, there is a catch. This smarter Siri powered by Apple Intelligence is not coming to every iPhone out there.
The new assistant relies on Apple Intelligence, the company’s in-house AI system. This means that you will need a device that supports it: an iPhone 15 Pro or anything newer. If you have an iPad, the 2024 iPad mini works too because it has the same chip. Not sure if your phone qualifies? Just open your Settings and look for the Apple Intelligence section. If you see it, you are good to go.
The update will arrive with iOS 27 this September 2026. However, Apple plans to launch it as a beta feature first. Users will likely have to opt in manually to try it out, similar to how developers had to request access during early testing.
Even if your phone can run iOS 27, which works on models as old as the iPhone 11, that does not guarantee you will get the new Siri. The AI features demand specific hardware, not just the latest software.
This is because simple tasks are handled right on your phone using Apple’s own AI models, to keeps things fast and private. For tougher requests, the system taps into cloud-based models, but Apple promises your data stays protected.
If you own a newer Pro model, like the iPhone 17 Pro or the iPhone Air, you will get extra perks. These devices have stronger on-device AI, which means better voice quality, sharper speech recognition, and more accurate dictation. The upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and the rumored foldable iPhone will also get this treatment. However, it is unclear if the standard iPhone 18 will join the club.