Apple is preparing a major leap in artificial intelligence by developing a new AI-driven search engine named World Knowledge Answers. This technology aims to transform Siri into a powerful “answer engine” capable of generating summaries, pulling multimedia content, and providing faster, more relevant answers. Apple intends to roll this out in spring 2026 alongside iOS 26.4 (codenamed “Luck E”).
The development signals Apple’s commitment to catching up with rivals like OpenAI, Google, and Perplexity AI, who have rapidly advanced in AI search. Apple’s project will blend its own AI models with Google’s Gemini, ensuring privacy by running sensitive user data on Apple’s Private Cloud Compute servers.
Siri’s Long-Awaited Overhaul
Since its introduction in 2011, Siri has often struggled with complex queries, frequently redirecting users to Google searches or other services. Apple now aims to make Siri a truly conversational assistant. The World Knowledge Answers project will be a cornerstone of this transformation.
Senior Apple executives, including software chief Craig Federighi and services head Eddy Cue, are overseeing this initiative. Apple describes the new Siri as a major upgrade, focusing on intelligence, accuracy, and seamless integration with other apps and devices.
Summary Table
Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
Project Name |
World Knowledge Answers (internal “answer engine”) |
Initial Platform |
Siri |
Future Integration |
Safari, Spotlight |
Core Components |
Planner, Search Engine, Summarizer |
AI Partners |
Google Gemini (testing), Anthropic Claude (considered), Apple models |
Privacy Approach |
On-device processing with Apple Private Cloud Compute |
Lead Teams |
AKI (Answers, Knowledge, and Information) |
Launch Timeline |
Spring 2026 with iOS 26.4 (“Luck E”) |
Official Website |
How World Knowledge Answers Will Work
The AI-powered system will consist of three primary components:
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Planner: Interprets user intent, whether spoken or typed.
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Search Engine: Combines on-device and web-based search for comprehensive results.
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Summarizer: Generates concise, easy-to-read responses that can include images, videos, and local information.
This multi-layered approach will allow Siri to answer complex questions, help navigate devices, and deliver tailored recommendations all while prioritizing user privacy.
Integration Across the Apple Ecosystem
Initially, the new AI search experience will launch in Siri, but Apple plans to extend it to:
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Safari: Bringing AI summaries and conversational search to the browser.
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Spotlight: Enhancing the iPhone’s home screen search tool for quick access to files, apps, and information.
By unifying web and on-device search, Apple is working toward a seamless search experience across its entire ecosystem, including iPhones, iPads, and Macs.
iOS 26.4 “Luck E” and Launch Timeline
The AI search engine will debut in iOS 26.4, scheduled for March 2026, a few months after the release of iPhone 17. This phased approach will allow Apple to refine the technology before rolling out its full capabilities across the ecosystem.
AI Partnerships and Technology Choices
Apple’s approach blends in-house innovation with strategic partnerships:
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Google Gemini: Apple has signed a deal to test a custom Gemini model for summarization tasks.
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Anthropic Claude: Initially considered but ruled out due to higher costs (estimated $1.5 billion annually).
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Apple Foundation Models: These will power on-device processing and searches of private data, ensuring Apple maintains its reputation for privacy.
This hybrid model strategy allows Apple to leverage cutting-edge AI while keeping sensitive user information secure.
The AKI Team and Leadership Changes
To accelerate development, Apple formed the AKI team (Answers, Knowledge, and Information). This group includes:
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Mike Rockwell, creator of Vision Pro
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Robby Walker, former Siri lead
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Members of Apple’s AI, Siri, and services divisions
The project, internally codenamed Linwood and LLM Siri, represents Apple’s largest AI push in years.
Apple’s AI Push and Competitive Landscape
Apple has faced increasing pressure to deliver advanced AI features as competitors release powerful tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude. Recent legal rulings have allowed Apple to maintain Google as its default search provider, a deal valued at approximately $20 billion annually. With this revenue secure, Apple can focus on building an AI-powered platform rather than rushing to market.
In addition to World Knowledge Answers, Apple is working on a redesigned Siri interface and a health-focused AI agent set to launch as part of a paid wellness service in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is World Knowledge Answers?
A. Apple’s upcoming AI-powered search engine designed to deliver richer, faster, and multimedia-based answers through Siri.
Q2: When will it launch?
A. Spring 2026, as part of iOS 26.4.
Q3: Will it replace Google Search on Apple devices?
A. Not entirely Apple will still partner with Google for some functions, but World Knowledge Answers will reduce reliance on external search engines.
Q4: How will Apple protect user privacy?
A. Private data searches will run on-device or through Apple’s Private Cloud Compute servers, ensuring minimal external data exposure.
Q5: Who is leading the project?
A. The AKI team, led by key executives including Mike Rockwell and Robby Walker, alongside Apple’s AI and services divisions.
Q6: Will it come to Macs?
A. While Apple hasn’t confirmed, Spotlight integration suggests macOS will benefit from the new AI engine.
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