Apple's New Siri to Allow Voice-Activated App Control

Apple is testing a new Siri feature that will allow users to operate apps using voice commands. The new version of Siri, combined with the App Intents framework, will enable users to perform actions across various apps, such as searching for a photo, editing it, and sending it to someone, or logging in to a service. Apple is reportedly testing this feature with popular apps like Uber, Amazon, and YouTube, with a planned release in spring 2026.

Apple is testing a new Siri feature that will allow users to operate apps using voice commands. The new version of Siri, combined with the App Intents framework, will enable users to perform actions across various apps, such as searching for a photo, editing it, and sending it to someone, or logging in to a service. Apple is reportedly testing this feature with popular apps like Uber, Amazon, and YouTube, with a planned release in spring 2026.

The upgrade, initially slated for iOS 18, has been delayed due to engineering challenges [3]. Apple aims to revolutionize AI interactions on iPhones by allowing Siri to take actions within apps based on voice commands. This capability was part of Apple's bold vision for an all-new Siri that could perform tasks by taking actions in apps, moving beyond simple voice commands [1].

The delay is significant, but Apple remains committed to delivering these advanced AI features. The company is working to ensure the system works accurately with a sufficient number of apps, especially in high-stakes scenarios. Apple is reportedly testing the new Siri with select third-party apps, including Uber, AllTrails, Threads, Temu, Amazon, YouTube, Facebook, and WhatsApp [4]. This collaborative approach aims to iron out potential issues and ensure smooth functionality across various app ecosystems.

The success of App Intents and the revamped Siri will heavily depend on third-party developer support and app adoption. If developers embrace these new capabilities, it could lead to a significant shift in how users interact with their Apple devices [3]. However, if adoption is limited, the impact of these new features may be less noticeable to the average user.

Apple's legal team likely anticipates fewer complications once these features finally reach consumers. The company has faced scrutiny over Siri's limitations compared to rival platforms, making this upgrade both a technical necessity and a competitive imperative [1]. The spring 2026 timeline suggests Apple prioritizes thorough testing over rushed deployment, learning from previous AI rollout challenges across the tech industry [2].

References:
[1] https://www.technology.org/2025/08/11/apples-siri-gets-enhanced-with-app-intents-next-spring/
[2] https://www.igeeksblog.com/siri-big-upgrade/
[3] https://theoutpost.ai/news-story/apple-s-siri-overhaul-and-app-intents-feature-delayed-to-spring-2026-facing-engineering-challenges-18914/
[4] https://techcrunch.com/2025/08/11/apples-new-siri-may-allow-users-to-operate-apps-just-using-voice/