Every iteration of the operating system, Apple makes improvements to the built-in voice assistant, such as in the latest version of the software. There's improved guidance on when and where you can access the service, as well as offline support.

This guide shows you everything that's new with the computer.

Siri

Simpler Shortcuts

You don't need a setup process to use the shortcut. When you install an app, you'll be able to use shortcuts immediately.

Emoji in Texts

When you're sending a message, you can ask your phone's assistant to add an image to it. It's important to say "emoji" after each request so that you don't get confused, and you will need to be specific about the character that you're requesting.

emoji siri messages ios 16

Hanging Up Calls

You can hang up the phone if you're having a hands-free conversation.

Automatic Message Sending

There is a new option in the settings that will remove the confirmation step that you have to go through if you want to send a message with a voice activated device.

If you don't have access to your phone to type, having to approve each message can be frustrating, so this streamlines the process.

If you want it to be turned off for the car and headphones, you have to opt in.

Siri Command Guidance

Just ask if you want to learn more about how you can use it. If you're in an app or doing something on your phone, say "Hey Siri, what can I do here?" to get more information on what it can do.

If you have a command like "Hey Siri, what can I do with the app?", you can ask about it.

More Offline Functionality

When you don't have an internet connection, there are a lot of functions that can be performed on the device.

When you are offline, HomeKit, Intercom, and Voicemail can be processed by Siri.

Accessibility Features

In the accessibility section of the settings app, there are new options to change the pause time of the voice assistant.

"Announce Notifications on Speaker" and the "Prefer Spoken Responses" option can be turned on if the phone is being silenced.

Dictation

It's easier to swap between voice and touch with Apple's new iOS 16. You can make edits and insert QuickType suggestions without having to stop the process if you tap into the text field.

If you tap on the popover, you can stop the text from being written.

Automatic Punctuation

While you dictate text, your device will add a few extra words.

The iPhone or iPad will listen to what you are saying, wait for you to finish, and then add periods based on the structure of your words. It's not perfect but it's better than having to speak punctation in order to use the app.

Emoji Support

The built-in dictation feature can also be used to add emoji.

Dictation in Messages

It's much easier to get to the Dictation icon in the Messages app on the App Store. You can see a tappable microphone icon if you enable Dictation.

The voice message icon was at the right side of the Messages text entry box, but it was replaced by the Dictation icon. There is no icon in the text box if Dictation is not used.

Guide Feedback

Do you know of a feature that we didn't include in the guide, or do you want to give feedback? We'd love to receive an email here.