Apple Should Combine Spotlight and Type with Siri

Apple has focused significantly on enhancing Siri within iOS 18 and macOS 15, introducing integrations with ChatGPT and preparing for upcoming integration with Apple Intelligence. A noteworthy change is the simplified text-based interaction, which I believe would greatly benefit from being merged with Spotlight.

The Case for Merging Siri and Spotlight

While Siri’s ability to be interacted with via typing is not a new feature, the introduction of a refreshed user interface in iOS 18 and macOS 15 makes text input significantly more user-friendly.

On iPhones and iPads, accessing the virtual keyboard is as easy as double-tapping the Home Indicator at the bottom of the screen. For Mac users, the Typing to Siri option is now the default, with the microphone button available for those preferring vocal commands.

Siri can assist with various tasks, such as checking the weather, setting timers, conducting web searches, or even locating specific photos. In the upcoming months, a software update is set to enhance Siri’s functionality by enabling app control and allowing it to access more personal data for improved assistance. Many of these capabilities already mirror those of Spotlight.

The interface for Siri and Spotlight shares similarities, particularly on the Mac, where both appear as floating bars. It makes sense to envision the current Siri suggestion interface showing Spotlight results as well.

Looking ahead, Siri is poised to achieve deeper integration with apps next year, which will enhance its efficiency for searches.

Having two similar interfaces that serve largely the same functions seems unnecessary, reminiscent of the redundant two Control Panels seen in Windows for many years. With Apple having just rolled out its new Siri, it’s understandable why the company might hesitate on merging it with Spotlight for the time being.