Apple tests internal “Veritas” chatbot to upgrade Siri capabilities

Apple is testing an internal chatbot called Veritas to develop and refine upcoming Siri AI upgrades, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. The employee-only tool allows Apple to quickly test new Siri capabilities like searching personal data and performing in-app actions, but the company has no plans for a public release and will likely rely on Google’s Gemini for AI-powered search instead.

The big picture: Apple’s internal testing approach reflects the company’s ongoing struggles to keep pace in the AI race, with next-generation Siri facing multiple delays and Apple Intelligence receiving a lukewarm market reception.

How it works: Veritas functions similarly to consumer chatbots like ChatGPT and Gemini, enabling Apple employees to engage in conversational interactions and testing.

• Employees can type requests, have back-and-forth conversations, and revisit previous exchanges to explore topics more deeply.
• The tool specifically tests Siri features like searching through personal data and performing in-app actions like editing photos.
• Apple uses the platform to rapidly develop, test, and collect internal feedback on new Siri capabilities.

Strategic direction: Rather than developing its own consumer-facing chatbot, Apple appears committed to partnering with external providers for AI search functionality.

• The company shows no indication of releasing Veritas to the public, keeping it strictly as an internal development tool.
• Apple is increasingly likely to integrate Google’s Gemini for its AI-powered search capabilities.
• This approach suggests Apple is focusing its AI efforts on enhancing existing products rather than competing directly in the standalone chatbot market.

What experts think: Bloomberg’s Gurman believes Apple’s decision to keep Veritas internal represents a missed opportunity for the company to establish a stronger presence in the consumer AI space.