Apple’s Latest Tech Turmoil: iPhone 17e Imminent, Siri Delays Continue, and New iPads on the Horizon

In a whirlwind week for Apple enthusiasts, the tech giant finds itself juggling multiple product launches and software setbacks. From the impending arrival of the iPhone 17e to persistent delays in Siri’s AI overhaul, here’s everything you need to know about Apple’s latest developments.

iPhone 17e Launch “Imminent” as iPhone 16e Stock Dwindles

Apple appears to be gearing up for the launch of its budget-friendly iPhone 17e, with sources indicating the announcement is “imminent.” The timing makes sense as Apple stores are reporting dwindling stock of the current iPhone 16e, suggesting the company is clearing inventory for the next generation.

The iPhone 17e is rumored to pack some impressive upgrades despite its budget positioning. According to leaks, the device will feature the A19 chip—the same processor found in the flagship iPhone 17—bringing significant performance improvements. Additionally, the phone is expected to include MagSafe connectivity, the C1X cellular modem for enhanced connectivity, and the N1 chip for improved Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Thread functionality.

This strategic move positions the iPhone 17e as a compelling option for users seeking premium features without the flagship price tag. The inclusion of the A19 chip particularly stands out, as it suggests Apple is committed to providing capable hardware across its product lineup.

New iPads Coming Soon with Major Chip Upgrades

Apple isn’t stopping with the iPhone—new iPad models are also reportedly on the horizon. The eighth-generation iPad Air is expected to receive a significant upgrade with the M4 chip, marking a substantial performance leap from its predecessor. Meanwhile, the 12th-generation standard iPad is rumored to jump up to the A18 chip, which will enable Apple Intelligence support for the first time on this entry-level device.

These chip upgrades represent Apple’s continued push to bring advanced AI capabilities to more devices across its product ecosystem. The addition of Apple Intelligence to the standard iPad lineup could make these devices more appealing to users who want cutting-edge features without investing in higher-end models.

Siri’s AI Overhaul Hits Another Snag

However, not all of Apple’s news is positive. The company has once again “run into snags” while testing the revamped version of Siri originally planned for iOS 26.4. This marks yet another delay for Apple’s ambitious AI assistant overhaul, which was first announced at the 2024 Worldwide Developers Conference.

The personalized, smarter version of Siri was initially supposed to be part of iOS 18, but Apple announced in spring 2025 that the functionality would be delayed for a year. Since then, the company has been targeting iOS 26.4, which is set to begin beta testing later this month. However, unforeseen problems have emerged: Siri sometimes fails to properly process queries and can take too long to respond to requests.

Apple engineers have reportedly been instructed to use iOS 26.5 for further internal testing, suggesting the new Siri features will be delayed until that update. Employees testing iOS 26.5 say the update includes all of the promised features, including personalization, onscreen awareness, and enhanced app integration, but not all features are working reliably, and there are problems with accuracy.

In a particularly concerning development, Siri sometimes falls back on using ChatGPT for information instead of relying on the Gemini-powered technology that Apple partnered with Google to use, even when the new version of Siri is capable of handling a user’s request.

Apple had also planned to include unannounced features such as options to generate images with Image Playground or search the web. These features were tested as part of iOS 26.4, and it’s possible they will still be included in the update, meaning Apple might still be able to release some of the new Siri functionality.

Bloomberg reports that the situation is “fluid,” and Apple’s plans could change. Executives are reportedly reluctant to further delay the Siri functionality beyond spring 2026, but the technical challenges appear significant.

Looking Ahead: iOS 27 and Beyond

Despite the current setbacks, Apple still has major changes planned for Siri as part of iOS 27, which is scheduled to launch this September. The company aims to add chatbot functionality to better compete with the likes of Gemini and ChatGPT. This new version of Siri will reportedly have deeper integration with apps and Apple’s operating systems, potentially transforming how users interact with their devices.

The repeated delays in Siri’s AI overhaul highlight the challenges Apple faces in competing with established AI players. While the company has made significant investments in Apple Intelligence and partnered with Google for Gemini integration, the technical hurdles of creating a truly personalized, context-aware assistant remain substantial.

What This Means for Apple Users

For consumers, these developments paint a picture of an Apple in transition. The company is clearly pushing forward with hardware innovations, bringing powerful chips and new features to more affordable devices. However, the software side—particularly in the AI space—appears to be proving more challenging than anticipated.

The iPhone 17e’s imminent launch offers an exciting prospect for budget-conscious users who want flagship-level performance. Similarly, the iPad upgrades promise to bring advanced capabilities to more users across Apple’s tablet lineup.

However, the continued Siri delays may frustrate users who were hoping for a more capable digital assistant. Apple’s AI ambitions have been well-documented, but the gap between promise and delivery seems to be widening, potentially giving competitors an advantage in the rapidly evolving AI assistant market.

As Apple navigates these challenges, the tech world will be watching closely to see whether the company can deliver on its AI promises or if further delays will be necessary to ensure a polished, reliable user experience.

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