Apple’s Siri chief admits AI delays are embarrassing, pledges improvements, as company struggles to keep up with competitors.
In Short
Apple’s head of Siri, Robby Walker, admitted to significant delays and quality issues in new features, now set to launch next year. Despite the setbacks, he commended his team’s efforts and reaffirmed their commitment to improving Siri’s functionality.
Apple’s head of Siri, Robby Walker, acknowledged significant delays in key features during a team meeting, describing the situation as “ugly” and “embarrassing.” He noted that promoting technology prematurely exacerbated the problem.
The enhancements intended for the Siri virtual assistant are now expected to launch next year instead of the previously planned release this spring. Delays stemmed from quality issues, with the technology reportedly functioning only 66-80% of the time. Walker expressed that staff might feel angry and burnt out from the setbacks.
Despite the challenges, he praised his team for their impressive developments and confirmed that they are committed to creating an effective virtual assistant. Apple has postponed the features, which were highlighted in marketing for the iPhone 16, amid struggles to compete with rival AI systems.
While the company plans to integrate Siri updates into future software cycles, Walker emphasized the necessity of ensuring quality before release. Adjustments to management may occur as Apple reassesses AI strategies, but no immediate executive firings are planned.
Future goals include making Siri more conversational and enhancing its functionality significantly. Walker reiterated the team’s commitment to improvement, stating, “We’ll make the adjustments we need for a better outcome.”
