is anyone else annoyed that iOS 26 routes queries to 4o instead of 5?

Examining iOS 26’s Routing Changes: Impact on Siri and AI Integration

With the recent release of iOS 26, many users anticipated notable improvements in the operating system’s backend architecture, particularly concerning the routing and processing of AI queries through Siri. Unfortunately, initial observations suggest that significant enhancements in this area have yet to materialize.

A key concern among users is the current routing protocol, which directs queries to a specific backend infrastructure—referred to here as “4o”—rather than perhaps a more advanced or flexible alternative like “5.” This fixed routing pattern raises questions about user control and customization. Given that Siri’s backend system appears to recognize subscription levels, such as GPT Pro, it would be advantageous if users could select or customize the AI models and endpoints Siri interacts with, thereby streamlining workflows and enhancing responsiveness.

The existing process of sharing content to ChatGPT directly, bypassing Siri’s AI layer, exemplifies a workaround that users have adopted. This multi-step approach—sharing content via the Share menu and then manually prompting ChatGPT—feels cumbersome and undermines the goal of seamless, intuitive user experiences. The design of user interfaces and backend processing seems to have drifted from simplicity and natural usability, raising concerns about Apple’s approach to AI integration.

These developments prompt broader reflections on the competitive landscape of AI-driven devices and interfaces. Historically, Apple has been viewed as a pioneer in intuitive UI design, but some argue that recent strategies resemble a period of stagnation or missteps—analogous to the era when Windows Phone struggled to compete against early iPhones. In the current AI era, the question arises: who is leading innovation? Is it Google, with its expansive search and AI ecosystem? Or might we see a resurgence from companies like OpenAI—should they ever pursue hardware ventures, such as a dedicated AI-focused smartphone?

As users and industry observers evaluate iOS 26’s advancements, it becomes clear that the evolution of AI integration in consumer devices remains a complex and competitive frontier. Future updates and developments will determine whether the industry continues to innovate or falls into patterns of stagnation, underscoring the importance of flexible, user-centric design and backend architecture in shaping the future of AI-powered devices.