While Apple is working to close the gap with competitors like Google and Samsung through enhanced AI capabilities in the upcoming iOS 27 release, users can already modify Siri’s voice and behavior on current devices. The new update, expected in mid-September, introduces “Expressive Voice,” a more dynamic and natural-sounding interface, but access to its full customization features is restricted to specific hardware.
To change Siri’s voice on existing versions of iOS and iPadOS, navigate to Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri > Voice. Users can preview available options and download new accents or voices. It is recommended to remain connected to Wi-Fi or a carrier network during the download process, which typically completes quickly.
Additional adjustments can be made via Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri, where users can select how Siri responds through the Talk & Type to Siri or Siri Responses menus. Options include having Siri speak aloud, respond quietly, or display only on-screen text. Early adopters of the iOS 27 beta may see expanded options in these menus.
Siri Expressive Voice, the term for this updated functionality, will be limited to iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone 17 Air, and iPads equipped with M4 chips or newer and at least 12GB of RAM. These devices will allow users to adjust the expressiveness and pace of Siri’s delivery. Beta testers can access these settings by going to Settings > Siri > Voice, which opens a distinct interface featuring a white orb. Currently, only American and British voice options include sliders for Pace and Expressivity; other languages do not yet offer these adjustment features.
For users seeking to modify Siri’s speed and response timing without upgrading to iOS 27, the Settings > Accessibility > Siri menu provides several controls. Key options include:
- Speaking Rate: A slider to adjust the speed of Siri’s voice.
- Siri Pause Time: Sets the delay before Siri responds to a query.
- Spoken Responses: Toggles between audio and text-only responses.
- Listen for Atypical Speech: Enhances speech recognition for scenarios such as eating.
- Require “Siri” for interruptions: Allows users to stop Siri mid-sentence by saying its name.
- Always Show Request: Displays a transcription of spoken commands on screen.
iOS 27 will support devices ranging from the iPhone SE (second generation) to the iPhone 11, though the extent of Apple Intelligence features will vary by model. Only the latest iPhone models will receive the complete suite of features, including full Expressive Voice customization.
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