Apple tells Siri AI to refuse requests to summarize URLs in iOS 27 beta 2 update

Apple Updates Siri AI System Prompt in iOS 27 Beta 2

Apple has introduced a significant AI-specific update to Siri's functionality with the release of iOS 27 developer beta 2 this week. The update includes a new section in Siri AI's system prompt that explicitly instructs the voice assistant to refuse requests to summarize URLs or extract content from web pages 1

1

. The new rule states: "You cannot access content behind a URL: When a user provides a URL and asks you to summarize, read, or extract information from it, inform them that you cannot access web pages. Do not offer follow-up suggestions or workarounds" 2

2

.

How Siri AI Blocks Webpage Summaries Differently

While Siri AI was already unable to generate webpage summaries from URLs alone, the iOS 27 beta update now requires the assistant to clearly communicate this limitation. Previously, users might have received ambiguous responses, but now Siri cannot access web pages and must state this directly without suggesting alternatives . This approach differs sharply from other AI chatbots and Google Overviews, which can generate summaries without requiring users to visit the original website 2

2

. Currently, Safari offers Apple Intelligence-powered summaries, but only when users are actively viewing the webpage itself 1

1

.

Why Apple's Decision Matters for Web Sustainability

While Apple hasn't publicly explained its reasoning, the restriction may address growing concerns about the sustainability of the web. By preventing Siri AI from pulling and summarizing website content without sending users to original pages, Apple appears to be taking a different path than competitors. This practice of extracting content could make the web increasingly unsustainable over time, as publishers lose traffic and revenue when AI-powered tools deliver information without directing users to source pages 1

1

.

What Else Comes with Developer Beta 2

The iOS 27 beta update, unveiled at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2026, includes more than just changes to URL summaries 2

2

. Developer beta 2 introduces a new Siri AI button above the keyboard in Notes, Mail, and Messages apps, offering quick access to AI-powered tools 2

2

. The release also brings a new Insights feature to Apple Wallet, a "Write with Siri" suggestion on the iOS and iPadOS keyboard, and the ability to update an Apple TV 4K remotely from the Apple Home app 1

1

. These updates arrived alongside counterparts for iPadOS 27, macOS Golden Gate, watchOS 27, and visionOS 27 2

2

.