Apple has introduced a smarter version of Siri with iOS 18, integrating advanced features powered by Apple Intelligence, the company's generative AI platform, and OpenAI’s ChatGPT. These updates aim to make Siri more intuitive and versatile for users.
Siri now uses ChatGPT to answer questions it cannot handle alone. For instance, if you want recipe ideas using ingredients from your garden, Siri can send your request to ChatGPT and provide helpful suggestions.
You don’t need a ChatGPT account to access this feature, but you must grant Siri permission to use the service.
Siri has enhanced its ability to understand natural language, even if you fumble while speaking. For example, you can say, “Siri, set an alarm for—oh wait, no, set a timer for 10 minutes. Actually, make it five.” Siri will interpret your intent and act accordingly.
Additionally, Siri now handles follow-up questions seamlessly without needing repeated context. If you ask, “Where is my next family reunion?” and Siri provides a location, you can follow up with, “What’s the weather like there?” without mentioning the place again.
You can now interact with Siri by typing instead of speaking. A simple double-tap on your device enables you to type your query, making it convenient in noisy or quiet environments.
Siri has gained deeper knowledge about Apple’s products and services. If you need guidance on using a feature, like scheduling a text message, Siri will provide step-by-step instructions directly, eliminating the need to navigate through settings or help pages.
Apple has announced more Apple Intelligence-powered updates for Siri, rolling out soon:
Personal Context Awareness: Siri will use device-specific information to perform personalized tasks. For example, you can ask Siri to find a recipe a friend sent a few days ago or retrieve your passport number from emails or photos.
Onscreen Awareness: Siri will understand the content on your screen and act accordingly. For instance, if you receive an address in a text, Siri can add it to a contact card directly.
Cross-App Actions: Siri will take actions across apps without requiring manual navigation. For example, you can ask Siri to enhance a photo in the Photos app and send it to someone via Messages.
These enhancements aim to make Siri a more efficient and personalized digital assistant, leveraging advanced AI capabilities to simplify everyday tasks.
