Apple to offer auto-deleting chat histories for Siri in iOS 27
Bloomberg reports that the upcoming iOS 27 update will allow users to set strict limits on how long Siri retains conversation data, contrasting sharply with competitors’ reliance on persistent memory systems.
Apple is reportedly introducing a new auto-deleting chat history feature for the revamped Siri in iOS 27, a move designed to position user privacy as a key differentiator in the artificial intelligence market. According to a report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the updated assistant will allow users to choose how long their conversations are retained, with options to automatically delete logs after 30 days, one year, or to keep them indefinitely.
This approach marks a significant departure from the prevailing industry standard. Most leading AI chatbots currently rely heavily on persistent histories and memory systems to personalise responses and improve future interactions. In contrast, Apple is implementing tighter restrictions on data persistence, aiming to alleviate growing consumer anxiety regarding AI data usage. The company appears to be banking on the premise that users are willing to sacrifice some level of convenience in exchange for greater control over their digital footprint.
The feature is part of a broader overhaul of Siri, which is set to debut in iOS 27. While the underlying technology for the revamped assistant will be powered by Google’s Gemini, Apple is attempting to distinguish its Apple Intelligence offering by limiting how that external technology accesses and stores user data. This strategy seeks to turn perceived weaknesses in its AI capabilities into a selling point based on security and privacy.
Competitors in the AI space typically offer only temporary incognito modes, if any, for users seeking to avoid data retention. By providing persistent but auto-deleting history options, Apple is creating a middle ground that allows for continuity without the indefinite storage of personal information. This aligns with the company’s historical record of embedding strict privacy controls into its software ecosystem.
The report highlights that this feature is still in development and has not been officially confirmed by Apple. As the iOS 27 release remains in the future, the final implementation of these data retention controls may change. However, the direction suggests a deliberate effort to leverage privacy as a competitive advantage as the tech giant continues to play catch-up in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
