Apple Tries to Catch Up in the AI Race at WWDC 2026

Apple used WWDC 2026 to deliver one of its most important software presentations in years, placing artificial intelligence at the center of its next generation of devices and services.

The main announcement was the long-awaited overhaul of Siri. Apple presented Siri AI as a more conversational, more capable assistant, built into iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch and Vision Pro through Apple Intelligence. The upgraded assistant is designed to understand natural speech, follow context, recognize what appears on the user’s screen, and carry out actions across apps. Apple says the system will rely either on on-device processing or its Private Cloud Compute system, continuing the company’s emphasis on privacy.

The new Siri was also the clearest sign that Apple is trying to close the gap with Google, OpenAI and other companies that moved faster in generative AI. After delays to Apple Intelligence features first promised in 2024, the company is now presenting the new Siri as a reset for its AI strategy, not just another voice assistant update.

Apple also announced iOS 27, which will bring performance improvements, AI features and design refinements to the iPhone. According to the company, the update will remain available for older devices including the iPhone 11, extending support for models that are now several years old.

On the Mac, Apple introduced macOS Golden Gate 27. The new system continues the Liquid Glass design language, but with changes meant to address complaints about readability. Users will now be able to control the transparency level of the interface, while windows, sidebars and toolbars receive a cleaner and more consistent design. The update also includes a rebuilt search system designed to index files more quickly and improve Spotlight results across the Mac.

Golden Gate also marks the end of full macOS support for Intel-based Macs. Apple said the new version will be available only on Apple Silicon machines, while older Intel Macs will continue receiving security updates for several more years.

Parental controls also received a major upgrade. Apple said the new Screen Time tools will give parents more control over who children can communicate with, which apps and content they can access, and how long they can use specific services. The company said the changes were influenced by child-safety recommendations, including concerns around social media use among children under 13.

The new operating systems are expected to roll out broadly in September, following beta testing. Some of the AI features will arrive gradually rather than all at once, a sign that even Apple’s catch-up effort is still a staged process.