'Hey, Siri:' Inside Apple's speech AI and the technology behind it (2024)

However, Apple has been investing billions of dollars in AI. The company announced in October 2023 that it was developing new AI systems and a "smarter Siri" that incorporates the updated technology.

What is Siri and how does it work?

Siri is Apple's voice-enabled virtual assistant, part of iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and other Apple operating systems. It uses AI, voice queries, and natural-language processing to answer questions, perform tasks, and make recommendations.

Voice actor Susan Bennett is the original voice of Siri. She said she made voice recordings for ScanSoft, an interactive voice company now known as Nuance in 2005. Bennett said she didn't know her voice was used for Siri until 2011. Apple purchased the recordings from ScanSoft.

Do I have to say, "Hey, Siri," every time?

To activate the voice assistant, users must say, "Hey, Siri" or "Siri," followed by a question or request, according to Apple. For example, "Hey Siri, set an alarm for 6 a.m." or "Hey Siri, make a FaceTime call to Mom."

You can also activate Siri by pressing and holding the Home button on your iPhone or the side button with Face ID. You can press and hold the voice command button on your steering wheel or the Home button on the CarPlay home screen. Or, press and hold the center or call button on AirPods.

Alexa vs. Siri: What's the difference?

Siri is Apple's voice assistant, while Alexa is Amazon's assistant.

Siri works with iPhones, iPads, HomePods, Apple Watches, and other Apple devices. Alexa works with Amazon Echo devices, FireTV, and other devices. Both respond to voice commands and work with communication tools and apps, like calendars, music streaming, and news.

Is Siri free to use?

Siri is automatically available on iOS on iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, and other Apple products. So, you can use it with any of these devices.

Siri enables you to use your Apple devices with a voice command. You can send messages, play music, ask questions, and more. However, you can turn off Siri on your devices if you don't want to use it.