Step 1: Unlock your iPhone or iPad.

To begin, unlock your iPhone or iPad by pressing the home button or side button and enter your passcode or use Face ID or Touch ID.

Step 2: Access the Settings app.

Locate the Settings app on your home screen, represented by a grey gear icon, and tap on it to open.

Step 3: Scroll down and tap on “Siri & Search.”

In the Settings menu, scroll down until you see “Siri & Search” and tap on it.

Step 4: Enable “Listen for ‘Hey Siri’.”

To turn on voice activation for Siri, toggle on the switch for “Listen for ‘Hey Siri'” if it’s off. This will allow you to activate Siri by simply saying “Hey Siri” out loud.

Step 5: Enable “Press Side Button (or Home Button) for Siri.”

Toggle on the switch for “Press Side Button (or Home Button) for Siri” if it’s off. This allows you to activate Siri by pressing either the side button or home button, depending on your device.

Step 6: Complete ‘Hey Siri’ Voice Recognition Setup.

If this is your first time setting up “Hey Siri,” you may be prompted to train your device to recognize your voice. Follow the instructions prompted on screen, saying phrases like “Hey Siri, what’s the weather” and “Hey Siri, set a timer.”

Step 7: Select Your Preferred Language.

Back in the Siri & Search settings menu, tap on the Language option and choose a preferred language from the list that appears.

Step 8: Select Your Preferred Siri Voice.

Tap on the “Siri Voice” option in the menu. Choose between different accents and genders until you find a voice that suits your preferences.

Step 9: Configure Your Response Type.

In the same settings menu, tap on “Siri Responses” and select the desired level of verbosity for Siri responses (Automatic, Low Detail, or High Detail).

Step 10: Allow Siri Access When Locked.

To control whether Siri can be accessed while your device is locked, toggle the “Allow Siri When Locked” switch to your preferred setting.

Step 11: Test Siri.

After completing the steps above, test out Siri by saying “Hey Siri” followed by a question or command. Alternatively, you can press the side button or home button to activate Siri.

Step 12: Congratulate Yourself!

Congrats! You’ve successfully activated and configured Siri on your iPhone or iPad. Now you can enjoy the convenience of hands-free assistance whenever you need it.