How to Use iOS 18 Vocal Shortcuts for Automation

iOS 18 introduces Vocal Shortcuts, an accessibility feature that lets users assign entirely custom spoken phrases to execute system tasks, run complex Shortcuts app routines, and control device settings without saying "Siri." This guide explains what actions and automations can be triggered with custom vocal phrases, how they integrate with the Shortcuts app, and the primary system actions available.

What Are iOS 18 Vocal Shortcuts?

Vocal Shortcuts allow users to train their iPhone to recognize specific words or sounds locally on the device. Unlike standard Siri commands, these custom triggers do not require a wake word like "Hey Siri" and can be customized to any phrase you choose.

Triggering Custom Automations via the Shortcuts App

The most versatile way to use Vocal Shortcuts is by linking them to the Shortcuts app. Any workflow you can build in Shortcuts can be mapped directly to a vocal command:

  • Smart Home Control: Trigger HomeKit scenes, such as saying "Night Mode" to turn off all lights, lock the front door, and lower the thermostat.
  • Communication Automations: Automatically draft a pre-set message to a contact, call a designated person on speakerphone, or broadcast an announcement.
  • Productivity Routines: Launch a work setup that opens specific apps, turns on Focus Mode, and plays a chosen playlist.
  • Media and Content Actions: Trigger recording memos, open specific camera modes, or log water intake into the Health app.

System and Accessibility Actions

Beyond the Shortcuts app, iOS 18 includes built-in system functions that can be mapped directly to a vocal phrase without requiring a custom script:

  • Navigation and Interface: Go to the Home Screen, open the App Switcher, access the Control Center, or view the Notification Center.
  • Device Control: Lock the screen, take a screenshot, adjust volume levels up or down, or restart the device.
  • Accessibility Features: Toggle assistive tools like VoiceOver, Zoom, Magnifier, AssistiveTouch, or Background Sounds.
  • Scrolling and Gestures: Perform actions like scrolling up or down continuously, tapping specific items, or activating Reachability.

Pre-configured Siri Requests

You can also assign custom phrases to specific Siri requests. Instead of saying the full sentence, a single custom phrase can run commands such as:

  • Checking the weather forecast.
  • Starting a specific timer or stopwatch.
  • Setting an alarm or calendar event.
  • Getting directions to a specific location.

How to Set Up Vocal Shortcuts

  1. Open Settings on iOS 18.
  2. Navigate to Accessibility > Vocal Shortcuts.
  3. Select Set Up Vocal Shortcut.
  4. Choose the action you want to trigger (from Siri Request, System Action, or Shortcuts).
  5. Type your custom phrase and speak it three times to train the on-device recognition model.