How to Block Explicit Language in Siri on iOS 12

Apple’s iOS 12 operating system allows users to restrict explicit language in Siri queries using the Screen Time feature. By navigating Content & Privacy Restrictions within Screen Time, parents and device owners can filter out profanity and mature content from Siri’s spoken answers and on-screen text transcripts. This guide provides the step-by-step instructions required to enable this filter on an iPhone or iPad running iOS 12.

Steps to Restrict Explicit Language in Siri

  1. Open the Settings app on your iOS 12 device.
  2. Scroll down and tap Screen Time.
  3. Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions. If prompted, enter your Screen Time passcode.
  4. Toggle the switch next to Content & Privacy Restrictions to the On position (green).
  5. Tap Content Restrictions.
  6. Scroll down to the SIRI section and tap Explicit Language.
  7. Select Don't Allow.

What Happens When This Setting Is Enabled

Once you select "Don't Allow," iOS immediately censors profanity across all Siri interactions. When Siri speaks a response that would typically contain adult language, the system beeps out the words or rephrases the output. On screen, explicit terms are replaced with asterisks.

Additionally, within the same Content Restrictions menu, you can restrict Web Search Content under the Siri section. Setting this to "Don't Allow" prevents Siri from querying the web for unvetted or potentially explicit search results altogether, providing an extra layer of protection for younger users.

Protecting Your Settings

To prevent unauthorized changes to these settings, ensure you have configured a dedicated Screen Time Passcode:

  1. Return to the main Screen Time menu in Settings.
  2. Tap Use Screen Time Passcode (or Change Screen Time Passcode if one is already set).
  3. Enter a secure four-digit PIN that differs from the device unlock code.

With this passcode in place, the explicit language filter cannot be turned off without proper authorization.