Siri may often be the subject of jokes in the AI community, but I find that Apple's voice assistant still offers several useful features that make everyday tasks easier. Whether it's quick calculations, setting timely reminders, or even reading articles aloud, Siri remains a handy tool that goes beyond its criticized reputation.
My Go-To Feature
Among Siri’s many capabilities, the one I use most frequently is its ability to quickly handle conversions and calculations. From converting units and currencies to calculating percentages, this feature always proves reliable and straightforward.
Precise Percentages
Siri’s exact percentage calculations come in handy more often than expected, whether for budgeting or quick estimates on the fly.
Handy Everyday Tools
Here are some simple but effective ways I use Siri daily:
- Unit and currency conversion: Quick and accurate in real-time.
- Setting reminders: Recurring, location-based, and context-aware reminders make staying organized effortless.
- Dictionary feature: Checking definitions and spelling without breaking my reading flow.
- Reading aloud articles: A great way to multitask by turning text into an audio experience.
- Parking reminders: Forgetting where I parked is no longer an issue, especially in unfamiliar areas.
- Health logs: Logging weight and medication through Siri simplifies keeping track without navigating complicated menus.
The Future Looks Promising
Apple is reportedly working on one of the biggest upgrades to Siri in years. According to trusted insider Mark Gurman, iOS 26.4 may bring a completely re-architected Siri powered by a new AI framework called Veritas. Led by Vision Pro chief Mike Rockwell, the initiative aims to transform Siri into a smarter, more proactive assistant with AI-driven “agents” tailored to specific needs, such as health coaching. This new Siri could mark a turning point, enabling a much more personal and helpful experience.
Your Thoughts?
Despite its flaws, do you still find Siri useful? What features do you rely on, and what improvements would you hope for in future updates?
