I tried Siri AI, and so far it actually works
Apple’s upgraded Siri AI, currently in developer beta, now allows users to add multiple calendar events directly from emails and flyers, according to reporting by The Verge. The system integrates Gemini models with Apple’s Private Cloud Compute to process personal context from messages and emails using on-device indexing for improved privacy.
How does the new Siri AI handle personal data?
Apple utilizes a hybrid processing model to manage user information. According to The Verge, Siri draws from an on-device pool of indexed data gathered from emails and messages. This allows the assistant to answer context-specific questions, such as calculating airport departure times based on calendar entries.
When a prompt exceeds on-device capabilities, the system sends the request to Apple’s Private Cloud Compute. Only the specific pieces of personal data required for the task are attached to these cloud requests. This differs from Google Gemini’s approach, where users opt into sharing their entire Gmail or calendar history for the AI to access directly.
How does Siri compare to Google Gemini?
While the new Siri is built on Gemini models, its functionality currently lags behind the standalone Google chatbot. The Verge reports that Google Gemini has supported adding multiple calendar events from screenshots for over a year and has provided plant diagnostic tools for several months.
The two assistants also differ in personality. In a side-by-side test regarding wilting flowers, The Verge found that Gemini used empathetic language, starting its response with “That is incredibly frustrating.” In contrast, Siri provided a more direct, dispassionate diagnosis without the emotional framing.
| Feature | Apple Siri (Beta) | Google Gemini |
|---|---|---|
| Event Extraction | From emails/flyers | From screenshots/emails |
| Tone | Direct/Dispassionate | Empathetic/Conversational |
| Data Handling | Private Cloud Compute | Opt-in Cloud Sharing |
What are the future trends for AI assistants?
The shift toward “agentic” AI is becoming evident as assistants move from answering questions to performing multi-step tasks. The ability to convert a poorly formatted flyer into a series of calendar events signals a move toward AI that manages logistics rather than just retrieving information.
Privacy-first architecture is another emerging trend. By prioritizing on-device indexing, Apple is attempting to resolve the tension between the high data requirements of Large Language Models (LLMs) and user privacy. This approach sets a precedent for how future OS-level AI will likely operate: local processing for personal identity and cloud processing for general knowledge.
Integration and User Access
Apple is placing the AI assistant in more prominent locations to increase usage. According to The Verge, the “search or ask” prompt now appears every time a user swipes down on the home screen. This integration suggests a future where the traditional app-search function is entirely replaced by a conversational AI interface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Siri add multiple events at once?
Yes, the latest beta allows Siri to reference an email or screen and add a list of events, such as sports schedules, to the calendar in one prompt.
Is the new Siri available to all iPhone users?
No, these features are currently limited to the developer beta.
How does Apple ensure privacy with AI?
Apple uses on-device indexing for personal data and Private Cloud Compute for complex prompts, ensuring only relevant data is sent to the cloud.
How do you feel about AI managing your calendar? Share your thoughts in the comments or subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on Apple Intelligence.