ver since Apple’s virtual assistant Siri debuted with the
release of the iPhone 4S and iOS 5 in 2011, using our
cellphones has become quicker and easier. So why
are you still navigating your device with taps, swipes,
As a legally blind iPhone user, I’ve found the following Siri
commands to be helpful in allowing me to take advantage of
technology and use my iPhone more easily. However, these
tips are appropriate for sighted people, too. For sighted readers
who may want to pass this article along to a visually impaired
family member or friend, I’d suggest using Microsoft’s app
called Seeing AI (free), which scans text and reads it aloud.
These tips have been tested with iOS 12 on the iPhone. If
you haven’t already updated your operating system, go ahead
and take care of that now. These Siri commands are not to be
confused with the new Siri Shortcuts feature and will work for
other iOS devices such as an iPad or iPod touch.
1. Getting Started with
Siri
Before you can start using
your virtual assistant, the first
step is to make sure you’ve
enabled Siri on your device.
• In the Settings app, tap on
Siri & Search. Under the Ask
Siri heading, the first option
is Listen for Hey Siri—toggle
this on to enable hands-free
use of your digital assistant. If
this is your first time using this
feature, you will be prompted
to record your voice so Siri
recognizes when you speak.
• Next, toggle on Press Home
for Siri for the iPhone 8 and
earlier, or Press Side Button
for Siri on the iPhone X and
later. Finally, toggle on Allow Siri when Locked.
• To use Siri for these tips, you must have a cellular or Wi-Fi
connection. Siri will not work without a direct connection to
the internet.
• The always-on Hey Siri prompt works for the iPhone 6S
and later whether or not it’s plugged in and charging, but
the function won’t work if your iPhone is face down or if
your case cover is closed.
2. Opening Apps with
Siri
You can open any iOS app
using Siri. This is a good trick
for opening apps that are
installed on your device but
hidden out of view in an unknown folder.
To do this, simply activate
Siri and use the command,
“Open,” followed by the app
name. While you can open
apps with Siri, you still have
to physically close them by
clicking the Home button on
the iPhone 8 and earlier or by
swiping up on the iPhone X
and later.
E
10 Voice Commands to Control
Your iPhone with Siri
by Joe Leo
