Siri’s Messaging Evolution: iOS 17 Unlocks New Possibilities

Apple’s iOS 17 has introduced a game-changing feature that allows you to redefine the way Siri interacts with your messaging apps. Previously, Siri relied on the default Messages app to send messages, but now you can seamlessly switch to third-party messaging apps, and Siri will remember your choice for future interactions. This exciting development provides you with newfound flexibility and convenience. Let’s dive into how you can make this powerful tweak and streamline your messaging experience with Siri.

How to Change Siri’s Default Messaging App

It’s remarkably simple to modify the messaging app Siri uses to send your dictated messages. While you can’t set apps like WhatsApp or Telegram as Siri’s default messaging app directly, Siri will remember your choice for future interactions. Follow these steps to customize Siri’s messaging app:

Note: These steps are applicable to iPhones running iOS 17 or later.

1. Invoke Siri: In iOS 17, you can activate Siri by saying “Siri” instead of the traditional “Hey Siri.”
2. Command Siri: Prompt Siri by saying “Send Message” and specify the contact to whom you want to send the message.
3. Dictate Your Message: Share the content of your message with Siri.
4. Select Your Preferred App: After dictating your message, a message confirmation will appear at the top. Tap on the Messages app icon.
5. Choose a Messaging App: Select the third-party messaging app you prefer for sending the text from the list of available options.
6. Send Your Message: Finally, tap the “Send” button to dispatch your message using the selected app.

Once completed, Siri will confirm the message’s dispatch. To verify, check the messaging app you chose.

How to Remove Suggested Messaging Apps

While Siri lets you use third-party messaging apps for sending messages, there may be times when you encounter an app that doesn’t support direct messaging. To maintain a clutter-free and confusion-free list of messaging apps in Siri’s suggestions, you can opt to remove a suggested app. Here’s how:

1. Open Settings: Launch the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Access Siri & Search: Scroll down and select “Siri & Search.”
3. Disable Suggested App: From the list of apps, choose the app you wish to exclude from Siri’s suggestions.
4. Turn Off the Toggle: Toggle off the “Use with Ask Siri” option.

Going forward, you’ll still be able to use Siri to open the app, but it won’t be included in Siri’s suggestions for sending messages, streamlining your Siri interactions.

With iOS 17’s ability to change the default messaging app for Siri, you have the flexibility to choose the app that suits your messaging needs. While iMessage remains an exceptional choice for iPhone users, this feature offers a delightful touch of customization and convenience. What are your thoughts on this newfound capability?