This is how Siri works offline on iPhone in iOS 15
One of the subtle but valuable new features in iOS 15 is that Siri even works offline for some commands. This means faster performance, but offline requests won't work for everything. Let's take a look at what works and doesn't with Siri Offline in iOS 15.
Apple announced the new Siri Offline feature during its WWDC keynote and highlighted some use cases. Since Siri can work without having to communicate with a server, offline Siri commands are faster and more responsive.
Apple also pointed out that the audio recorded by Siri will not leave your iPhone with a new privacy provision and the upcoming start of processing on the device which will be the default.
iOS 15 introduces even more privacy controls to help protect user information. With voice recognition on the device, audio for Siri queries is now fully processed on the iPhone by default, and performance improves dramatically.
As for what's functional with Siri offline, here's what to expect.
iOS 15 is currently available in public and developer beta with the official release scheduled for fall 2021.
What works with Siri Offline in iOS 15?
You don't need to activate Siri offline in iOS 15; it is enabled by default and works with commands such as:
- Open applications
- Control system settings like dark / light mode, volume, accessibility features, airplane mode, low power mode, etc.
- Set and modify timers and alarms
- Play the next or previous song in the Music app
What is wrong?
When you're offline and ask a request that Siri can't answer, you'll see “I can help when you're connected to the internet” at the bottom of your screen. These include:
- All requests that require constantly updated information like weather, HomeKit, reminders, calendar, etc. or yes - anything that requires an active internet connection 😅
- Most specific actions in applications
- Messages, FaceTime, phone calls
- Play music or podcasts - even downloaded content
I was hoping that playing downloaded content would work with Siri requests offline, but they haven't since the first beta. Hopefully this will change in future beta versions before iOS 15 officially launches.
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