Siri AI is available on newer Apple devices only, here’s the full list

Billy Odell Tucker-Robinson Founder & Host — Banking With Billy Network • Intelligence Network • Data Science • AI Research • World News
Published: 2026-09-28T19:44:53.019Z • Permanent link

Apple's latest iOS 27 update has brought significant changes to the company's virtual assistant, Siri. However, the revamped AI has only become available on newer Apple devices, leaving users of older models out in the cold. The news comes as no surprise, given Apple's history of prioritizing newer hardware when it comes to feature updates. According to reports, the company's decision to restrict Siri's availability to newer devices was made in collaboration with other major tech giants, including Google and Amazon. These companies are said to have shared concerns about the potential risks of integrating AI-powered virtual assistants into older devices, where security vulnerabilities may be more prevalent. For instance, a recent study by researchers at Stanford University found that older smartphones are more susceptible to hacking attempts due to outdated software and security patches.

Meanwhile, Apple's decision to limit Siri's availability to newer devices has sparked concerns among users who rely on the virtual assistant for everyday tasks. For instance, seniors and individuals with disabilities may struggle to adapt to the new interface, which some have described as "clunky" and "difficult to navigate." Furthermore, the lack of support for older devices raises questions about the long-term viability of Apple's ecosystem. As the company continues to prioritize newer hardware, will it abandon its loyal customer base of older users? Apple's response to these concerns remains unclear, but the company has assured users that it will continue to provide support for older devices, albeit with limited features.

Representatives from Apple have declined to comment on the specific reasons behind their decision to restrict Siri's availability to newer devices. However, insiders close to the company suggest that the decision was made in an effort to ensure the security and stability of the virtual assistant. By limiting Siri's availability to newer devices, Apple aims to reduce the risk of hacking attempts and data breaches. According to one source, the company has implemented new security protocols to protect user data, including more stringent encryption and access controls.

The implications of Apple's decision to restrict Siri's availability to newer devices are far-reaching and significant. For instance, the lack of support for older devices raises concerns about the accessibility of AI-powered virtual assistants to vulnerable populations, such as seniors and individuals with disabilities. As the use of virtual assistants becomes increasingly widespread, it is essential that companies prioritize accessibility and inclusivity. Moreover, the decision highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability from tech giants when it comes to data protection and security.

The impact of Apple's decision is also being felt in the research community, where scientists and engineers are working to develop more advanced AI-powered virtual assistants. For instance, researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, have been exploring the development of AI-powered virtual assistants that can adapt to individual users' needs and preferences. However, the lack of support for older devices raises questions about the long-term viability of these efforts. As companies continue to prioritize newer hardware, will they abandon their research and development efforts for older devices?

The decision also has significant market implications, particularly in the AI-powered virtual assistant market. Companies such as Amazon and Google are expected to follow Apple's lead, limiting the availability of their own virtual assistants to newer devices. This could lead to a fragmented market, where users are forced to choose between different virtual assistants, each with its own set of features and limitations.