Software

Apple Adds Siri Pace and Expressivity Customization in iOS 27 Beta

Apple has introduced the ability to customize Siri’s speaking pace and expressivity in the latest iOS 27 beta, released on July 6, 2026.

Image: TechCrunch

Apple has added new voice controls for Siri in the latest iOS 27 beta, allowing users to adjust how quickly and expressively the AI assistant speaks. The update, part of iOS 27 beta 3, enables the 'Pace' and 'Expressivity' settings that were previously marked as 'Coming soon' in earlier beta versions. This change is part of Apple’s broader effort to make Siri feel more natural and personal by integrating generative AI into the assistant. Users can now switch between different voices with varying accents and use sliders to adjust speaking speed and emotional tone. Siri will practice common phrases like 'You have one new message' to help users preview the changes. The AI-powered Siri is deeply integrated into the updated iOS version, allowing iPhone owners to start conversations through speech, swiping from the Dynamic Island, tapping the side button, or using a standalone app. Other minor updates include an updated Reminders app icon. Some users have reported losing access to the new Siri features or experiencing data indexing issues after the update.

The voice customization options reflect Apple’s move to enhance user interaction with AI assistants, similar to how platforms like ChatGPT allow users to adjust warmth and enthusiasm in their AI voices. ChatGPT’s voice settings, introduced in December 2025, let users configure the base style and tone, such as friendly, professional, or quirky. These settings influence both how the AI speaks and how it presents information. Apple’s approach mirrors this trend, aiming to make Siri more adaptable to individual preferences. The addition of these controls was first announced at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC 26) in June, expanding on the initial ability to choose male or female-sounding voices.

The update is part of Apple’s ongoing effort to refine Siri as a more personalized and natural conversational assistant. By giving users greater control over how Siri speaks, Apple aims to improve user engagement with its AI-powered assistant. The changes are currently available to beta testers and will likely be rolled out to the public in a future iOS update.

Source: techcrunch

Key points

Apple introduced Siri’s pace and expressivity customization in iOS 27 beta 3, released on July 6, 2026.
The update enables 'Pace' and 'Expressivity' settings previously labeled as 'Coming soon' in earlier beta versions.
Users can adjust Siri’s speaking speed and emotional tone using sliders, with the AI practicing common phrases to preview changes.
The AI-powered Siri is deeply integrated into the updated iOS version, allowing conversations through speech, swiping, tapping, or a standalone app.
Apple’s approach mirrors platforms like ChatGPT, which let users configure the base style and tone of its AI voice.
The voice customization controls were first announced at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC 26) in June.

Source: TechCrunch Read the original →

WRITTEN BY

Theo Almeida

AI Software & Developer Tools

Theo covers AI software, developer tools, frameworks, and the platforms builders use every day.