6 iPhone features to use without using your hands

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The iPhone is synonymous with technological innovation and practicality. With each new version, Apple introduces tools that make using the device even more intuitive and accessible. Among these innovations, the possibility of interacting with the iPhone without having to use your hands stands out.

Whether sending messages, making calls, accessing information or configuring automated routines, the “hands-free” features guarantee greater convenience and safety, especially in situations such as driving or performing household tasks with your Apple smartphone.

However, many people still don't know how to exploit the iPhone's full potential hands-free. In this guide, we'll introduce you to six incredible features that you can activate with just your voice or other alternative commands.

In addition to understanding how to access them, you will discover what they are for, why they are important and on which models and versions of iOS they are available.

6 iPhone features to use without using your hands

Siri: the personal assistant always ready to help

Siri is the best-known feature for using your iPhone hands-free. This virtual assistant allows you to send messages, set alarms, search the internet, play music, among other tasks, with just voice commands.

How to configure: To activate Siri, simply go to Settings > Siri and Search and enable the option “Listen to 'Hey Siri'”. With this, you can say “Hey Siri” followed by the desired command.

Why is it important? In addition to being practical, the feature is essential for times when your hands are busy, such as when driving or cooking. Siri is also an ally for people with physical disabilities.

Compatible Models: Available starting with iPhone 4S, with expanded functionality in iOS 10 and later.

Spoken Text

The Spoken Text feature lets iPhone read aloud selected text on the screen. This can include messages, emails and even web articles.

How to configure: access Settings > Accessibility > Spoken Content and activate the “Speak Selection” and “Speak Screen” options. Then, swipe two fingers from the top of the screen to listen to the content.

Why is it important? It is a practical solution for people who have difficulty reading or for those who prefer to listen to information while carrying out other tasks.

Compatible Models: Available from iOS 8 on all supported models.

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Voice control

Voice Control is a feature that goes beyond Siri. It lets you control virtually your entire iPhone with voice commands, including opening apps, scrolling pages, and interacting with screen elements.

How to configure: Access Settings > Accessibility > Voice Control and activate the option. You can also customize commands and adjust the language.

Why is it important? This feature is especially useful for people with mobility limitations, as well as being a powerful alternative to using your iPhone hands-free in any situation.

Compatible Models: available from iOS 13 on devices like the iPhone 6S or newer.

Shortcuts with personal automation

The Shortcuts app allows you to create automated routines that can be triggered by voice or automatically. For example, you can set up a shortcut to send a message when you get home or play a playlist when you connect your headphones.

How to configure: open the app Shortcuts (already installed on iOS), create a new shortcut and configure the desired actions. Then, assign a voice command to activate the shortcut via Siri.

What is it for? Personal automation increases productivity and reduces time spent on repetitive tasks.

Compatible Models: Available starting with iOS 12 on all supported models.

Get Up to Wake Up

This feature allows you to automatically activate the iPhone screen when you lift it, eliminating the need for touch. Although it doesn't rely on voice commands, it's a useful feature for quick access to notifications or important information.

How to configure: Access Settings > Display and Brightness and activate the “Rise to Wake” option.

Why is it important? It offers agility and practicality, especially at times when you need to view information quickly.

Compatible Models: Available from iPhone 6S with iOS 10 or higher.

Answer calls automatically

With the auto answer function, your iPhone can answer calls without you having to touch the device. This functionality is ideal for those who use headphones or are in situations that require free hands.

How to configure: access Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Auto Answer Calls and set the time to answer automatically.

What is it for? It guarantees safety and convenience, especially for drivers or professionals in busy environments.

Compatible Models: Available starting with iOS 11 on all supported models.