Apple Unlikely To Move Forward With Siri-To-iPhone 4 Plans

A few days ago, we reported that Apple was internally testing Siri for use on its aging iPhone 4. They were. And now they're not. iDownloadBlog reports:

According to an email forwarded to developer Michael Steeber, a customer sent Apple an email about bringing Siri to more iDevices. The message was then allegedly sent to Engineering at Apple, and the following response was given: Engineering has provided the following feedback regarding this issue: Siri only works on iPhone 4S and we currently have no plans to support older devices.

While far from an official statement, the note reflects the probable state of affairs regarding the continued exclusivity of Siri to the iPhone 4S. An earlier bit of information from 9to5Mac theorized this restriction was mainly due to hardware differences between the 4S' new, always–on infrared proximity sensor and its predecessor's more conservative module. However, it now seems the discrepancy is due primarily to recent software changes within iOS itself. The notion that Apple is holding Siri back because of a lack of full "experience" compatibility (i.e. the user's ability to launch Siri on older iPhones by simply lifting the handset to his ear) looks to be largely incorrect. Too bad all the best jailbreakers have scruples, right?

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