Do we really need another chatbot even if it's one from Apple?

But do we actually need it?

Here’s the thing: even with Apple’s spin, I can’t help but wonder why we need another chatbot. There are already plenty, and Siri will likely feel similar to what’s already out there.

Many iPhone users have already chosen a chatbot they like. Over time, these AI assistants learn your style, habits, and interests, essentially becoming personal helpers. Switching to Siri would mean starting from scratch, which can be annoying.

I mean, the timing here is tricky. Apple missed the initial AI boom, and most users who wanted a smart assistant on their phone have already picked one – often ChatGPT or Gemini. Now, Apple is entering the scene after habits have formed. Privacy may be slightly better with Siri, but beyond that, it might not offer enough to make users switch.

Why Siri might still succeed

Still, Apple has advantages that could make Siri a hit. First, it’s Apple. The company knows how to create hype, polish software, and make even small improvements feel significant. Even if the AI engine is Google’s Gemini, Apple’s tweaks and ecosystem integration could make the experience feel fresh.

And integration is a major factor. Siri could work seamlessly across Apple apps, handling tasks like drafting emails, summarizing photos, or managing calendar events. For iPhone users who live entirely in the Apple ecosystem, that kind of smooth, connected experience could be compelling.

And I’m pretty sure that even though Apple Intelligence supports the iPhone 15 Pro and newer models, the upgraded Siri could still end up exclusive to even newer iPhones. That alone would be enough to push upgrades, just like what happened with the iPhone 16 series, where Apple Intelligence was heavily promoted, only for many features to arrive late or not at all. Which could be a bummer for many, but a win for Apple.

So, what does all this mean? On one hand, Siri might not offer anything revolutionary. Users already relying on ChatGPT, Gemini, or Claude may not feel the need to switch, especially if they’ve invested time training their AI. Starting over with a new assistant is inconvenient, and privacy alone might not be enough of a reason.

On the other hand, Apple’s polish, ecosystem integration, and brand appeal could make Siri a success. Even arriving late, Apple knows how to make products feel essential and desirable.

For me personally, the question isn’t whether Siri will succeed – it probably will – but whether we really needed it in the first place. The AI assistant market is crowded, and users have already chosen tools that work for them. Siri’s arrival might be more about refining the experience for Apple users than revolutionizing AI.

Still, it’s hard not to be curious. Can Apple take Gemini, wrap it in its ecosystem, and make Siri feel like the assistant we didn’t know we needed? Or will it mostly be a polished version of what’s already out there?

What do you think? Do we need Siri now that ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude are so far ahead? And can Apple deliver an experience compelling enough to make us switch?