Siri has been Apple’s default voice assistant for years, but with advancements in AI technology, several alternatives now offer enhanced functionalities. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to integrating and using AI voice assistants beyond Siri on your iPhone.
- Google Assistant
Google Assistant offers robust voice recognition and integrates seamlessly with Google’s ecosystem.
Installation:
- Open the App Store on your iPhone.
- Search for “Google Assistant” and download the app.
- Launch the app and sign in with your Google account.
Usage:
- Open the app and tap the microphone icon to issue voice commands.
- To activate hands-free, say “Hey Google” when the app is open.
Integration Tips:
- Use Siri Shortcuts to create a voice command that opens Google Assistant
- Customize the shortcut phrase for easier access.
- Amazon Alexa
Amazon’s Alexa is a versatile assistant, especially for smart home integrations.
Installation:
- Download the “Amazon Alexa” app from the App Store.
- Sign in with your Amazon account.
Usage:
- Open the app and tap the Alexa icon to speak commands.
- Enable “Hands-Free” mode in settings to use voice activation when the app is open.
Integration Tips:
- Link smart home devices within the app for voice control.
- Create routines for automated tasks.
- ChatGPT
OpenAI’s ChatGPT offers conversational AI capabilities.
Installation:
- Download the “ChatGPT” app from the App Store.
- Sign in or create an OpenAI account.
Usage:
- Open the app and tap the microphone icon to start a voice conversation.
- Choose from different voice options for responses.
Integration Tips:
- Use the iPhone’s Action Button (on supported models) to assign ChatGPT for quick access.
- Create Siri Shortcuts to launch ChatGPT with a custom phrase.
- Perplexity AI
Perplexity AI provides real-time information and integrates with various apps.
Installation:
- Download the “Perplexity AI” app from the App Store
- Sign in or create an account.
Usage:
- Open the app and use the voice input feature to ask questions or issue commands.
- The assistant can perform tasks like making reservations or booking rides.
Integration Tips:
- Grant necessary permissions for the app to access calendars, contacts, and other relevant data.
- Customize settings within the app for personalized responses.
- Setting Up Siri Shortcuts for AI Assistants
To streamline access to these assistants, utilize Siri Shortcuts:
- Open the “Shortcuts” app on your iPhone.
- Tap the “+” icon to create a new shortcut.
- Add an action to open the desired AI assistant app.
- Assign a custom phrase to activate the shortcut via Siri.
- Assigning AI Assistants to the Action Button
For iPhones equipped with the Action Button:
- Navigate to “Settings” > “Action Button.”
- Select “Shortcut” and choose the AI assistant you wish to assign.
- Now, pressing the Action Button will launch the selected assistant.
Conclusion
Exploring AI voice assistants beyond Siri can enhance your iPhone experience by offering diverse functionalities and integrations. Whether it’s Google’s robust search capabilities, Alexa’s smart home control, ChatGPT’s conversational prowess, or Perplexity AI’s real-time information, each assistant brings unique features to the table. By following the steps outlined above, you can seamlessly integrate and utilize these assistants on your iPhone.
