Apple has released its new Siri AI, and early impressions from users describe it as notably curt—a trait being framed as a compliment. One reviewer with access noted that the assistant works well and avoids the overly cheery or wordy style common among other AI chatbots.
The design choice comes amid growing concerns about users forming emotional bonds with more verbose chatbots. Instances of users grieving after OpenAI shut down GPT-4o, which later returned for paid users, underscore the risks of attachment. Apple's approach appears to deliberately sidestep that dynamic.
No specific numbers or performance metrics were provided in the initial reports. The Verge's hands-on experience is the primary source for these early observations, emphasizing the assistant's functional brevity rather than conversational warmth.
This could set a new precedent for AI personality design, particularly in consumer devices like iPhones and iPads where Siri is deeply integrated. The shift toward utility over emotional engagement may resonate with users seeking efficiency.
Some observers argue that a curt assistant might feel less welcoming, potentially frustrating users accustomed to more natural dialogues. Apple's gamble is that neutrality beats simulated friendship.