Apple is reportedly working on a significant change to its virtual assistant, Siri, stated Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. The change aims to eliminate the need for the “Hey Siri” trigger phrase, allowing users to simply say “Siri” followed by a command. That way, the Apple digital assistant would have a similar functionality as that of Amazon’s Alexa. This transition presents technical challenges as Siri needs to accurately interpret the singular phrase “Siri” across different accents and dialects.
In addition to the trigger phrase change, Apple is also focusing on deeper integrations of Siri with third-party apps and services. This integration would enhance Siri’s ability to provide contextual assistance by leveraging additional information.
While the exact timeline is not confirmed, these Siri updates are expected to be rolled out in 2023 or 2024. Apple might announce this update alongside iOS 17 at its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), although the event’s primary focus is anticipated to be on Apple’s mixed-reality headset.
Rumors surrounding iOS 17 suggest improvements such as enhanced control over flashlight brightness, customizable Lock Screen options, a revamped Apple Music interface, and improved customization and organization of the App Library. A redesigned Control Center and the potential for app sideloading are also topics of speculation.
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- Your favorite music and content – Play music, audiobooks, and podcasts from Amazon Music, Apple Music, Spotify and others or via Bluetooth throughout your home.
- Alexa is happy to help – Ask Alexa for weather updates and to set hands-free timers, get answers to your questions and even hear jokes. Need a few extra minutes in the morning? Just tap your Echo Dot to snooze your alarm.
- Keep your home comfortable – Control compatible smart home devices with your voice and routines triggered by built-in motion or indoor temperature sensors. Create routines to automatically turn on lights when you walk into a room, or start a fan if the inside temperature goes above your comfort zone.
- Do more with device pairing – Fill your home with music using compatible Echo devices in different rooms, or create a home theatre system with Fire TV.
- Say goodbye to drop-offs and buffering - With eero Built-in, Echo Dot doubles as a mesh wifi extender, adding up to 1,000 sq. ft. of wifi coverage to your existing eero network.
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