Siri Multi-Stop Route Planning in iOS 16 Maps

Apple introduced multi-stop routing in iOS 16, allowing users to add up to 15 stops along a single journey in Apple Maps. While users can manually configure these waypoints before starting a trip, Siri plays a key role by enabling hands-free, voice-activated additions to routes both before departure and while actively driving.

Adding Stops During Active Navigation

Siri's primary function in multi-stop routing is dynamically inserting waypoints into an ongoing trip. When navigation is already active, you can issue voice commands to find amenities or specific locations along your path without cancelling your final destination.

Common voice commands include:

  • "Hey Siri, add a stop for gas."
  • "Hey Siri, add [Business Name] to my route."
  • "Hey Siri, find coffee along my route."

When you make a request, Siri searches for locations directly on or near your current path. It presents matching options on the screen, showing the estimated detour time for each. Once you select a location—either by voice or by tapping the screen—Siri inserts it as the next intermediate stop, recalculates the arrival time, and resumes guiding you to your final destination afterward.

Pre-Trip Multi-Stop Routing with Siri

While Siri excels at adding stops to active routes, configuring a complex, multi-stop route before departing has some limitations.

You can initiate a route with a prompt such as, "Hey Siri, give me directions to [Destination] with a stop at [Waypoint]." However, Siri's ability to chain more than two destinations in a single initial prompt is limited. For itineraries involving three or more stops, the most reliable method is to have Siri initiate directions to the final destination first, then voice-command additional stops, or build the list manually inside the Apple Maps interface before tapping "Go."

Route Adjustments and Removal

Siri can also modify multi-stop routes on the fly. If you decide to bypass a planned stop, you can instruct Siri to skip or remove it using commands like:

  • "Hey Siri, remove my next stop."
  • "Hey Siri, cancel the stop at the gas station."

Siri will update the route immediately, directing you toward the subsequent waypoint or the ultimate destination without requiring you to pull over or touch your device.

CarPlay Integration

All of Siri’s multi-stop voice capabilities function identically when connected to Apple CarPlay. Drivers can use the steering wheel voice control button or the "Hey Siri" wake phrase to add or remove stops, ensuring a completely hands-free navigation experience while on the road.