Apple addresses core software issues before rolling out AI-enhanced Siri at WWDC

Apple's WWDC keynote led with fixes to long-standing usability problems: a controversial Liquid Glass design language that users found hard to read, a search function that barely worked, and a file-sharing feature that routinely failed. The company introduced design refinements, a slider to dial back Liquid Glass transparency, a rebuilt search experience described as 'more stable, more efficient, and more comprehensive of content,' and faster file transfers via AirDrop (up to 80% faster).

Performance improvements extend to all iPhone models back to iPhone 11 (released 2019): iPhone and iPad apps now launch 30% faster, new photos appear up to 70% faster in your library, and a new messaging indicator alerts users when messages are taking longer to send. The Health app added support for perimenopause and menopause tracking, and iCloud shared photo albums now accept contributions from Android and Windows users.

Siri is launching into beta for consumers later this year but not in the EU or China due to regulatory hurdles—a significant constraint for a feature positioned as central to Apple's AI strategy. Apple also announced AI features across apps: image generation via Image Playground (including an API for developers), generative editing (removing objects and expanding photo edges), a new Spatial Reframing tool to adjust photo composition retroactively, Calendar event creation from natural language, and AI-powered reply suggestions in Messages.