Apple is reportedly planning a significant update to its virtual assistant, Siri, that would streamline the command process by eliminating the need for the phrase “Hey Siri.” Instead, users would only have to say “Siri” followed by their command, similar to how Amazon’s Alexa functions.

Transitioning to a Single Command

The shift from a two-word trigger phrase to a single word poses technical challenges, as Siri will need to accurately interpret the singular phrase “Siri” across different accents and dialects. The current “Hey Siri” phrase increases the chances of the system accurately recognizing the trigger.

Deeper Integrations and Enhanced Assistance

Alongside the command change, Apple is also working on enhancing Siri’s integration with third-party apps and services. This deeper integration would allow Siri to provide better assistance by leveraging additional contextual information.

Anticipated Timeline and Possible Announcement

While the exact timeline is not confirmed, these Siri changes are expected to be rolled out sometime between 2023 and 2024. Apple may potentially unveil this update alongside iOS 17 at the upcoming Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) this summer. However, the primary focus of the event is expected to be Apple’s mixed-reality headset, so the Siri command update may not be the central highlight.

Rumored Improvements in iOS 17

Rumors surrounding iOS 17 suggest several enhancements, including more control over flashlight brightness, customizable Lock Screen options, a revamped Apple Music interface with enhanced visuals, and the ability to customize and organize the App Library. A redesigned Control Center and the potential for app sideloading are also topics of speculation.

As the WWDC event approaches, Apple enthusiasts eagerly await further details on these anticipated updates.