Apple's virtual assistant Siri could soon be phrasing its chatter in a more natural way after the Cupertino firm completed the acquisition of a language startup, Digital Spy reports.

The iPhone maker's latest purchase VocalIQ specialises in technology that improves a machine's ability to understand human speech and respond appropriately.

The terms of the deal have not been disclosed, but word of its completion comes from the Financial Times, which speculates that VocalIQ tech could also appear in the rumoured Apple Car.

The startup has previously worked with General Motors on technology that allows motorists to access their in-car systems with their voice.

Reports suggest that Apple has been tinkering with self-driving car hardware behind closed doors, with a view to launching an electric vehicle before 2020.

Apple took its first steps towards the motor industry when it added in-car functionality iOS with the launch of its CarPlay service last year.