Apple is preparing to launch a new AI-powered web search tool, World Knowledge Answers, which will be integrated into its Siri voice assistant to compete with AI leaders like OpenAI and Perplexity AI.
This ambitious initiative seeks to turn Siri into a cutting-edge “answer engine” that sources and conversationally summarises internet information. Apple will launch this service in spring 2026 as part of Siri’s upgrade.
World Knowledge Answers: Reinventing Siri Search
This forthcoming AI feature will significantly improve Siri’s capacity to offer responses. Unlike Siri’s current model, which frequently depends on fundamental fact-checking or external AI tools, this system will produce multimodal responses, such as text, images, videos, and local information.
It employs large language models (LLMs), the same technology behind popular generative AI like ChatGPT, allowing Siri to deliver faster, clearer, and more comprehensive replies.
Integration across Apple ecosystem
Apple’s strategy includes embedding this AI search tool in Siri, its Safari web browser, and Spotlight search on iPhone devices. This approach means users can access the AI-powered answers wherever they search on Apple devices.
Certain Apple executives say this is an “answer engine” that will profoundly alter how Apple users search for information online, positioning the company’s offerings as viable alternatives to established AI and search services.
Collaboration with Google powers AI edge
Apple is utilising its partnership with Google to enable a portion of this new AI initiative, which is an intriguing development. Apple is reportedly testing Google’s Gemini AI model to support the World Knowledge Answers feature, underscoring the evolving relationship between the two companies despite their intense competition.
This collaboration may provide the backbone to boost Siri’s search significantly, blending Apple’s ecosystem with Google’s AI advancements.
Apple’s recent AI-powered enhancement is significant, as Siri has been frequently criticised for its limitations. By incorporating advanced AI models and profoundly integrating the technology into its ecosystem, Apple is preparing to challenge the leading AI companies, OpenAI and Perplexity, with a more interactive and intelligent Siri experience.
The AI-powered search will transform ordinary queries into rich, engaging results across multiple media types, making Siri not just a voice assistant but a powerful, intelligent search gateway for Apple users.