iOS 26.2 Could Let European iPhone Users Replace Siri with Another Voice Assistant
Apple is preparing to introduce a significant change in its upcoming iOS 26.2 update, allowing iPhone users in the European Union to select a different default voice assistant in place of Siri. According to code references discovered in the iOS 26.2 beta 3 by MacRumors, users may soon have the option to assign a third-party voice assistant app to launch when they long-press the Side Button on their device.
Strong Influence from EU Regulations
European regulators have been a driving force behind Apple's recent adjustments, including the switch from Lightning to USB-C ports and allowing third-party app stores on the iPhone. This new change follows previous moves where Apple permitted users in the EU to replace the Wallet app with alternative digital wallets accessible via a double-press of the Side Button.
Would You Replace Siri with Another Voice Assistant?
Current Poll Results (9 votes):
- As soon as I get the chance! — 22.22%
- No, Siri is good enough for me — 22.22%
- Yes, but only if I can use AI-powered assistant — 44.44%
- I don’t use voice assistants — 11.11%
Challenges Ahead for Siri
This upcoming feature could present a challenge for Siri’s dominance on iPhones within Europe. With third-party voice assistants, including potentially more advanced AI solutions like Google Gemini, users might enjoy more customized and powerful interaction options. Apple’s ongoing compliance with EU regulations appears to be reshaping the iPhone user experience more extensively than ever before.
