Siri May Soon Enable Money Transfers from Locked iPhones

Fast Summary

• Apple has indefinitely delayed the anticipated release of a more capable Siri, initially expected with iOS 18.4, now aiming for a proper rollout by early 2026.
• The company is considering integrating third-party Large Language Models (LLMs),such as ChatGPT or Claude,for enhanced AI functionalities in Siri.
• A recent patent suggests Apple plans to allow Siri to interact securely with private data even when the device is locked. Potential features include sending money via Apple Pay Cash, sharing files, unlocking smart home controls using AirPods or Apple Watch commands.
• Apple’s patent outlines verification methods for secure usage while locked, including proximity of paired accessories and recent verifications. It may extend functionality across various devices like iPads and Macs but is still in the prototype phase with unclear timelines.

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Indian Opinion Analysis
Apple’s ongoing efforts to improve Siri have implications for India’s burgeoning smartphone and digital payment market where iPhones command significant influence among premium users. Innovations like secure voice-command payments could align well with India’s growing adoption of digital wallets and contactless systems, perhaps reinforcing trust in convenience-led technologies.

Nonetheless, security will likely remain a critical concern given past issues surrounding data privacy globally-including fears about unauthorized access to financial tools on locked devices. If fully realized by 2026 and integrated thoughtfully into Apple’s ecosystem-including affordable platforms-it could transform not just tech adoption but drive wider acceptance of voice assistant-based transactions among India’s diverse user base.