WWDC: Siri gets smarter with iPad, Facebook, car integration
Siri and Facebook. Credit: James Martin/CNET
Apple isn't giving up on Siri, the voice control and recognition technology that was introduced last October with the unveiling of iOS 5.
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Instead, it looks like the software is getting smarter on iOS 6 and some more friends with some serious integration deals that were revealed During Apple's annual Worldwide Developers Conference in San Francisco on Monday morning.
First of all, Siri is moving beyond the confines of the iPhone 4S to the iPad. Beyond that, Apple has expanded integration on Facebook. This means that users will be able to update their status messages just by vocal command. So use that at your own risk.
Siri on the dashboard. Credit: James Martin/CNET
Speaking of risk taking, Apple is bringing Siri to the open road thanks to partnerships with Toyota, GM, Mercedes, BMW, Honda, Audi and more. The technology will be installed in the steering wheel, responding to spoken alerts without lighting up the screen. The implementation is expected to be completed within the next year.
It's debatable whether or not concentrating on vocal commands while driving is any safer than texting or talking on your cell phone. One would think that vocal commands would be much safer...but if Siri doesn't understand what you're saying, then how much time would you be spending trying to correct that while driving too?
Siri is showing signs of strength as Apple has announced some considerable updates for the platform, including the ability to open apps and more language support. It also looks like Siri is getting better at understanding search commands...at least based on the keynote demo.
Apple expects iOS 6 to be ready this fall for the Phone 3GS and later along with the 2nd and 3rd-gen iPads.
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