Apple lets Siri AI take actions in third-party apps in iOS 27.3

In short: Apple is expanding Siri AI so it can complete tasks inside third-party apps, starting with an iOS 27.3 Developer Preview.

What happened

Apple says developers can now add Siri AI features to “all apps” as part of the iOS 27.3 update rolling out Tuesday in a Developer Preview. A Developer Preview is an early version meant for app makers to test before a wider release.

With this change, Siri AI can use more signals to understand what you want. Apple says it can use your personal context (your info and habits on your device), understand natural language prompts (plain, everyday wording), and use on-screen awareness (what is currently shown on your screen) to carry out requests.

Apple is also introducing “app skills” for third-party apps. App skills are like a short recipe that bundles several steps into one command (like asking someone to do a small set of errands in one trip).

Apple’s documentation says you may not need to say an app’s name if it is already in front of you, if it has a Live Activity running (a small, always-updated status card like a ride pickup countdown), or if you are already talking to Siri AI about that app. Apple gave an example where someone requests a ride, watches updates, and then says, “Hey Siri, change my ride pickup to a new address.”

Apple says similar expanded Siri AI features are also coming to many of its own apps, including Calendar, Mail, Maps, Messages, Photos, Reminders, Safari, and others.

Why it matters

For iPhone users, this could mean fewer taps and less app switching when you are trying to get something done. If developers adopt it, Siri could act more like a helpful assistant who can follow along with what you are doing on screen, instead of a tool that only handles simple, isolated commands.

Source: The Verge AI