Apple’s Siri Update Could Include a Major AI Privacy Twist

More rumors about Siri’s big makeover are leaking ahead of Apple’s annual developer conference—and one big change could have a lot to do with data privacy and security. Apple is expected to launch a standalone app for its embattled AI assistant, Siri, which will operate as a chatbot-like interface, similar to Anthropic’s Claude or OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Users are expected to be able to type or speak requests. Although the app will be able to store conversations to mine for contextual information for future requests, Apple is expected to differentiate itself from its competitors by allowing users to auto-delete their conversations, according to a report from Bloomberg. This is much like the way Apple allows users to auto-delete their text messages, which works so well, Bloomberg notes, that it has invited complaints over government officials using the feature to delete their messaging histories. Apple also plans to establish stricter guidelines around what information does hang around in the system and how long it can be kept. Competitors typically allow users to toggle on temporary incognito modes that prevent conversations from being used to train AI models. It’s worth noting that Apple has brought in Google’s Gemini and cloud infrastructure to keep the Siri update functioning and on schedule—after costly delays. Apple first introduced its Apple Intelligence as a mix of on-device and cloud-based computing that it billed as similar to iPhone security but in the cloud. Called Private Cloud Compute, it was expected to operate on Apple’s own servers and chips. Bloomberg reports that Apple will still call its system “Private Cloud Compute,” but the mechanics of how it might operate aren’t clear, given the Google integration. The two-year delay around the roll out of an updated Siri has proved to be a stain on Apple’s recent track record, as well as an expense, because of a recent $250 million settlement on a class-action suit that alleged false advertising. But if Apple is successful in relaunching Siri with an emphasis on privacy, it could justify to consumers the longer wait time, especially as concerns gather about what people are sacrificing in the name of cutting-edge AI features. Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference will kick off on June 8. The tech giant is expected to announce iOS 27, as well as software for Mac computers and iPads. And the graphic for the conference, featuring glowing lettering, hints at a new look and functionality for Siri. BY CHLOE AIELLO @CHLOBO_ILO