July 31, 2026, 1:40 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
After the lukewarm launch of Apple Intelligence at the end of 2024, artificial intelligence is set to play a larger role in Apple’s operating systems. At the WWDC 2026, Apple introduced Siri AI, which users outside the EU can already test in the beta version. However, outgoing CEO Tim Cook has hinted that extensive use of the new AI voice assistant will come with a fee.
Siri AI only free to a limited extent
In Cook’s last quarterly conference as Apple CEO, the topic of artificial intelligence was thoroughly discussed by investors, as reported by “9to5Mac.” One of the key discussion points was the financial potential of Siri AI–given Apple’s rising investment costs. The company has a billion-dollar deal with Google to use its Gemini model family as the foundation for Apple Intelligence.
While Siri AI remains free to use on iPhone, iPad, and Mac, the strong focus on new AI capabilities means that only a small portion of processing can occur on the devices themselves. More complex requests are sent to Apple’s servers or even third-party providers, resulting in ongoing costs for Apple.
Therefore, Cook has suggested that the use of Siri AI cannot remain free indefinitely. It is still unclear what exactly this means, but a token limit like those of other AI providers is conceivable. Users would have a certain monthly limit for complex requests and, after reaching it, could only access basic Siri functions. For more intensive use beyond that, an iCloud+ subscription will be required.
In the current Beta 4 of iOS 27, this restriction is not yet active. However, users in the EU do not have access to Siri AI for the time being.
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Certain AI features only with iCloud+
Apple had already announced during WWDC26 that some of the newly announced Apple Intelligence features also have usage limits. Once these are exhausted, an iCloud+ subscription is also required. This includes the revamped Clean function and the new Extend Tool in the Photos app, as well as the updated Image Playground application:
“For some Apple Intelligence functions, including image generation, daily usage limits apply because they rely on powerful server models. Extended access is available with most iCloud+ subscriptions. These also include Apple Intelligence support for compatible Home cameras.” [sic]
The new AI features for video recording in the Home app require the 2-TB iCloud+ plan, which alone costs 9.99 euros per month. Additionally, the new Cloud Pro model for private cloud processing in the Shortcuts app is available exclusively to users of higher iCloud+ tiers.
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Requirements and availability
Siri AI will be released alongside iOS 27 in the fall and requires a device that supports Apple Intelligence. For the iPhone, this means at least a 15 Pro or newer is necessary. In Europe and China, however, Siri AI will not be available for the foreseeable future due to regulatory requirements.