Back in May, we saw a patent application that Apple filed for a way to communicate with Siri by writing her questions and responses using iMessage. While that didn't make it into iOS 11, something even better did — a way to ask Siri things with the keyboard directly in the Siri interface.
This will work with any iPhone or other device running iOS 11, but there's one downfall to this: You can only do one or the other via the home button shortcut — type or talk. For most of us, it's probably one or the other anyway, and you can still use "Hey, Siri" on supported devices to have verbal conversations either way.
To switch from voice to text only, just go to Settings -> General -> Accessibility -> Siri, then toggle on "Type to Siri." That's it. While you no longer have to speak, Siri will still respond to you by voice if Voice Feedback is set to "Always On," though there will also be written responses and data cards. Of course, you can adjust your voice feedback setting in the same menu.
Now, when you want to ask Siri something via typing, just long-press your home button, and the Type to Siri interface will show up with the keyboard. Type out your question or demand, then tap "Done" to get the response.
You can keep the conversation going, too, by typing out another question or demand.
This is just one of the many cool new features in iOS 11 for iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch. You can check out some of the best ones at the link below.
