Apple is set to introduce its most significant AI enhancements with iOS 18.4, focusing heavily on Siri improvements. However, I’m particularly eager to experience these advancements with the Vision Pro. Here’s my take on it.
A New Dawn for Siri
Siri is currently undergoing a transformation. Apple claims we have entered a ‘new era’ for Siri, a change that is evolving gradually.
- iOS 18.1 introduced a refreshed Siri interface along with some minor enhancements.
- iOS 18.2 added robust ChatGPT integration.
- In iOS 18.4, we will see some of the most substantial upgrades.
So far, ChatGPT integration has undoubtedly been the highlight of this new Siri phase.
However, this necessity for integrating OpenAI’s chatbot underscores Siri’s existing limitations.
Thankfully, many of these limitations are set to be resolved with the arrival of iOS 18.4.
Three New Siri Features in iOS 18.4
iOS 18.4 is expected to be available to users in April, with a beta release possibly starting next month.
Once it debuts, Siri will acquire three new capabilities:
- Expanded app actions: Apple states that Siri will be able to perform hundreds of new tasks within Apple apps without needing to launch them first. This capability will extend to supported third-party apps via App Intents.
- Personalized context understanding: Much like a real-life assistant, Siri will utilize your texts, past calendar events, and other personal information to provide genuinely intelligent assistance.
- On-screen awareness: Siri will be aware of what’s displayed on your screen, allowing you to request actions related to whatever you’re currently viewing.
If these capabilities function as designed, and with the dependability we all anticipate (and yes, I remain skeptical), they could be revolutionary.
Siri may finally evolve into the intelligent assistant it was envisioned to be.
Now, let’s shift focus to the Vision Pro, as this is where Siri’s enhancements could be particularly compelling.
Maximizing Spatial Computing with Siri
As a relatively new owner of the Vision Pro, having had it for less than a month amidst holiday activities, my experience has already highlighted the crucial role Siri plays on this platform.
In spatial computing, voice interaction becomes even more essential.
While I use Siri frequently on my iPhone and iPad, I don’t rely on the assistant as much.
On those devices, Siri is handy for quick tasks like setting timers or reminders.
In contrast, I’ve found myself significantly depending on Siri for a variety of functions within Vision Pro.
For instance, Siri has become my preferred method for launching apps in visionOS.
Perhaps part of this is my adaptation to visionOS, but I find it to be much quicker and more intuitive to navigate using Siri.
Unlike on my other devices, where I rarely use Siri to open apps, it operates exceptionally well on Vision Pro.
I also utilize Siri for dictating responses in Messages and Mail. Even with a Bluetooth keyboard connected, dictation feels far more natural.
Transformative Potential of iOS 18.4 on Vision Pro
Currently, Apple Intelligence isn’t available on Vision Pro, but it is anticipated to be introduced this year.
Imagine the impact of iOS 18.4’s Siri features on Vision Pro.
As Siri gains the ability to perform advanced app actions while understanding what you are viewing and your contextual information, the possibilities for spatial computing could truly become a reality.
Siri’s improvements will certainly benefit the iPhone, but they could also be vital for Apple’s success in spatial computing.
The aspiration of simply speaking to your computer and having it act intelligently is becoming increasingly tangible.
Do you find yourself using Siri on Vision Pro? What are your thoughts on the upcoming upgrades in iOS 18.4 for visionOS? Share your insights in the comments.
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