Apple adds type-to-Siri feature — here’s how to access it

Apple Intelligence introduces Type to Siri feature: iOS 18.1 update brings a new capability to iPhone users, allowing them to type their requests to Siri instead of speaking them aloud.

• The feature is part of the broader Apple Intelligence rollout, which aims to make Siri smarter and more context-aware over time.
• Type to Siri is particularly useful in situations where discretion is needed, such as during meetings or in public spaces.
• The feature is available on iPhones that support Apple Intelligence and can run iOS 18.1, which is currently available as a public beta.

How to enable and use Type to Siri: Setting up and utilizing this new feature involves a few simple steps within the iPhone’s settings.

1. Open the Settings app and select “Apple Intelligence & Siri” from the main menu.
2. Navigate to the “Talk & Type to Siri” menu and ensure the toggle for “Type to Siri” is turned on.
3. To use the feature, tap the very bottom edge of the iPhone screen to bring up the keyboard with Siri’s glowing interface.

User experience and interface: The Type to Siri feature incorporates predictive text and shortcut suggestions to enhance efficiency.

• As users type their requests, predictive text appears in the text field.
• Shortcut suggestions for common commands are displayed above the text field.
• The interface is designed to save typing time, especially for frequently used commands like setting alarms.

Broader context of Apple Intelligence: The Type to Siri feature is part of a larger initiative to enhance iPhone functionality and user experience.

• Apple Intelligence is being rolled out gradually, with improvements expected to continue into 2025.
• The update aims to make Siri more aware of what’s on the user’s screen, potentially leading to more contextual and helpful interactions.
• Other new features introduced alongside Type to Siri include Writing Tools, email summaries in the Mail app, and the ability to create Memory Movies from photos and videos.

Availability and access: The new features are currently available through the iOS 18.1 public beta, allowing early adopters to test the functionality.

• Users interested in trying the new features can download the iOS 18.1 public beta.
• The full release of iOS 18.1 is expected to follow the beta testing phase, making these features widely available to compatible iPhone users.

Potential impact on user behavior: The introduction of Type to Siri could significantly alter how users interact with their digital assistant.

• This feature may encourage more frequent use of Siri in situations where voice commands were previously impractical or uncomfortable.
• The ability to type requests could also lead to more complex or nuanced interactions with Siri, as users may feel more comfortable formulating detailed queries in text form.

Looking ahead: The integration of typing functionality with Siri signals Apple’s commitment to evolving its digital assistant experience.

• As Apple continues to refine and expand Apple Intelligence, users can expect further enhancements to Siri’s capabilities and integration with various iPhone features.
• The success of Type to Siri could potentially influence future developments in digital assistant interfaces across the tech industry.