Apple released iOS 27, the latest version of its iPhone operating system, on Monday, September 14th. The update includes a redesigned, AI-powered Siri assistant, ahead of the launch of the latest iPhone models this week.

Apple explained that the new AI-powered Siri is still in beta and users must manually activate it through the Settings app. According to CNBC, users may also need to be placed on a waiting list to gain access.

Apple is aiming to position its upcoming iPhone 18 models as ideal devices for artificial intelligence applications, thanks to their ultra-fast processors and reliance on stored personal data such as calendars and text messages.

In this context, Apple CEO John Ternos, speaking at last week's iPhone launch event—his first public appearance since succeeding Tim Cook on September 1st—said, "It's truly personal intelligence."

He added that "the iPhone is the centerpiece of an incredible ecosystem of intelligent features and experiences that work seamlessly across the products you use every day."

Apple first unveiled its AI-powered Siri assistant in June; a previous version of AI-enhanced Siri, originally slated for release in 2024, was delayed last year.