With the launch of iOS 18, Siri is set to be reborn, becoming more powerful and capable of handling complex tasks through natural language. Here’s a sneak peek into the new abilities of Apple’s virtual assistant:
Siri Will Understand Complex Commands
Apple is conducting various tests to make Siri stronger and better at understanding voice commands given in natural language. The company is reportedly training Siri with intentionally ambiguous commands. For example, instead of a simple command like “Hey Siri, show me vacation photos,” they are testing with commands like “I want to create a blog” or “I’m feeling nostalgic right now.” These are not specific commands directing Siri to do something particular; instead, Siri will need to interpret them and decide the best way to fulfill the user’s potential needs or wants.
The goal is to move Siri beyond requiring specific syntax for tasks. Users won’t need to use precise commands like “turn on the coffee machine”; instead, they can make more natural requests such as “Siri, I want some coffee.” The leak also details Siri’s integration with at least 18 built-in iPhone apps. Here are some of the most notable features:
Camera Control
Siri will respond to voice commands for camera control. Users will be able to switch between video and photo modes, start a timer, and toggle between front and rear cameras using voice commands.
Email Management
With iOS 18, Siri will use machine learning to automatically classify emails in the Mail app. Siri will be capable of creating, sending, and scheduling emails, marking emails as junk, setting reminders, summarizing emails, and generating “smart replies.”
AI Features in Photos
Apple is introducing AI features in the Photos app with iOS 18. This will allow iPhone users to remove unwanted objects from photos and fill in gaps, similar to features seen on Android phones.
Web Page Summaries
The iOS 18 update will integrate Siri with the Safari browser. The assistant will provide summaries of web pages and enable faster execution of simple tasks like creating new tab groups and opening private tabs.
Voice Note Recording
Users will be able to record voice notes with Siri. They can instruct Siri to create a new recording, start speaking, stop the recording, name it, and even move it to a specific folder using voice commands.
Control Over System Settings
Siri will also have the ability to adjust system settings. It can manage brightness, home screen, and app library settings, as well as toggle multitasking and gesture controls. Siri will be able to scan documents with the Files app and move specific files to the trash. In the Contacts app, Siri can edit contact details. In the Magnifier app, Siri will identify objects and people, as well as doors, using the camera. The System Settings app is expected to undergo a revamp with iOS 18 and macOS 15.
Apple will share more details about iOS 18 and other system updates at the WWDC24 event on June 10th. What do you think about these new capabilities? Share your thoughts with us…
