Apple’s iOS 18 has introduced a new feature called Vocal Shortcuts, which was primarily designed to enhance accessibility. However, Reddit users have discovered a unique use for this feature – giving Siri a new name. This exciting finding has gained attention on various platforms, including MacRumors, as users have been experimenting with different names for Siri, such as Jarvis, HAL 9000, and even Alexa.
To set up Vocal Shortcuts and rename Siri on your iPhone, you’ll need to follow a few simple steps. First, open the Settings app and navigate to Accessibility. Scroll down until you find the option for Vocal Shortcuts. Once there, select “Set Up Vocal Shortcuts” and choose Siri as the target. Next, enter the new name you want to assign to Siri.
However, renaming Siri is not as straightforward as it may seem. There are a couple of limitations to consider. Firstly, the renaming process will only apply to the specific device where you set it up. So if you have other Apple devices like HomePods, they will still respond to the default name “Siri.” Secondly, there is a slight inconvenience when using the new name. Unlike with the default “Hey Siri” command, where you can speak the entire phrase at once, you’ll have to pause after saying the trigger word assigned to Siri. This pause allows Vocal Shortcuts time to activate Siri. While this may be a minor inconvenience for some users, it’s worth noting that the default “Hey Siri” command will still work even if you’ve given Siri a new name.
Despite these limitations, being able to give Siri a new name adds a fun and personalized touch to the user experience. It allows users to interact with their devices in a more unique and engaging way. Whether you prefer to call Siri Jarvis or HAL 9000, Vocal Shortcuts provides an opportunity for personalization and customization.
In conclusion, the discovery of using iOS 18’s Vocal Shortcuts to rename Siri has sparked excitement among Reddit users. While there are some limitations to consider, such as the renaming not syncing across devices and the need for a pause when using the new name, this feature adds a fun and personalized element to the Siri experience. So go ahead and give Siri a new name that suits your style and enjoy interacting with your iPhone in a whole new way.