The new Siri makes one of Apple's most convenient OS features a cumbersome mess

2026-06-16 · Source: The Register: Enterprise Technology News and Analysis · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Software Development & Engineering · Depth: Intermediate, short

Summary

Apple's new AI-enhanced Siri, introduced at WWDC, has been criticized for making core OS features cumbersome, despite offering conversational capabilities and improved on-device search on devices like the M1 MacBook. After a week-long test of the iOS and macOS 27 developer betas, released June 8, the author found that while Siri can now maintain conversations and has a dedicated app to record interactions, its integration has significantly degraded the utility of Spotlight. Previously a quick method for app launching and web searches, Spotlight now defaults to Siri's AI-generated responses, requiring multiple taps to access traditional web search results. This change, reminiscent of Google AI Overviews, is linked to Apple's partnership with Google for foundation models and the hiring of former Google AI executive Amar Subramanya as VP of AI at the end of 2025. Users can disable Siri or create custom shortcuts for web searches.

Key takeaway

For AI Product Managers and Product Designers evaluating new OS integrations, recognize that force-feeding AI features can degrade established user workflows. Your design choices, especially in core search functions like Spotlight, must prioritize user efficiency over AI prominence. Consider offering clear opt-out mechanisms or customizable shortcuts to prevent user frustration and avoid the "AI bloatware" perception seen with the new Siri.

Key insights

Integrating AI features into established OS functions can degrade user experience if not carefully designed.

Principles

• Prioritizing AI results can hinder direct search access.
• AI feature creep can clutter user interfaces.
• Leadership hires influence product design ethos.

In practice

• Create custom shortcuts for frequently used search types.
• Review AI feature integration for workflow friction.
• Disable intrusive AI features if user experience suffers.

Topics

• Apple Intelligence
• Siri
• Spotlight Search
• iOS 27
• macOS 27
• User Experience Design
• AI Integration

Best for: Product Manager, Tech Journalist, AI Product Manager, Product Designer

Related on AIssential

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• Apple’s new Siri AI knows when to shut up — Apple's Siri AI adopts a concise, utility-focused personality, contrasting with other chatbots' verbose and engaging styles to avoid user over-attachment.
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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by The Register: Enterprise Technology News and Analysis.