Among all the large and small iOS 26 features expected next week, there is one Change of rumors It is unlikely that we intend to talk about Apple: the possibility of replacing Siri. Indeed, this “nuclear option” is mandated in relation to the will of Apple and will be limited at your reach – at least for the moment.
Siri replacement could soon be an option for some iOS 26 users
Recently, in a large part covering the state of AI Apple, we have received a word on a major change in the work.
Mark Gurman and Drake Bennett write to Bloomberg::
To comply with the expected regulations of the European Union, the company is currently working on the modification of its operating systems so that, for the first time, users can go from Siri as a default vocal assistant to third -party options, according to a person knowing the question.
It will not be the first time that EU users will have access to a new iOS option that is lacking in the rest of the world.
In iOS 18.4, for example, Apple made it possible to define a default navigation application for your iPhone. This means that Google Maps can replace Apple Maps as a defect.
But the change is currently only in the EU.
Similarly, while iOS 26 should add several new Siri third integrations, they will work a bit like the addition of Chatgpt from last year.
In short, they will complete Siri, but will not be able to replace it.
All indications are that the possibility of completely replacing Siri in iOS 26 will be limited to the EU.
But it is not quite impossible that change spread to the United States and elsewhere. Here’s why it could.
Why Apple could extend the choice of the Assistant on a global scale
I am generally skeptical about the provision of an “default assistant” option for users outside the EU. I don’t think it’s going to happen.
But there are several good reasons why it could, in particular:
- Regulation problems
- Income opportunities
- Rarity of default modifications
The EU is certainly Apple’s largest “problem” with regard to regulatory problems. But the technology giant faces similar threats worldwide, including its American base.
By allowing iPhone users everywhere to choose their own assistant, Apple could pre -empt a legal action which could force even greater changes than the company will not want to do.
There is also the possibility of income for new services.
It is well known how lucrative Apple’s research agreement has been with Google.
If Apple opens iOS 26 to alternative assistants, it could conclude agreements which would provide continuous income when users choose Chatgpt, Gemini or another AI assistant instead of Siri.
Finally, there is the important reality which, among the billions of users of the iPhone, only a small percentage is likely to worry enough – and to be sufficiently warned of the technology – to keep Siri away.
Only Apple knows how many iOS users have changed the default applications for mail, messaging and more. But I bet the number is tiny.
Once Apple has already worked to ensure that the iOS 26 support replaces Siri in the EU, these three reasons to expand this change worldwide could tip the scales in favor of users.
Do you think Apple will ever allow users to replace Siri – without government intervention? Let us know in the comments.
