Voice Commands: Simple Tricks to Supercharge Your Android or iPhone

Ever wish you could tap less and say more? Voice commands let you control your phone without digging through menus. Below are everyday hacks you can start using right now, whether you run Android or iOS.

Getting Started with Built‑In Assistants

Both platforms ship with a voice assistant – Google Assistant on Android and Siri on iPhone. The first step is to make sure they’re listening. On Android, go to Settings > Google > Account services > Search, Assistant & Voice and turn on "Hey Google." On iPhone, open Settings > Siri & Search and enable "Hey Siri." Once active, a simple "Hey Google, open Settings" or "Hey Siri, set a timer for 10 minutes" will work without touching the screen.

These assistants do more than set alarms. Ask them to read your messages, launch a specific app, or even toggle Wi‑Fi. For example, saying "Hey Google, turn on Bluetooth" saves a few taps and keeps you connected faster.

Hidden Voice Shortcuts You Might Not Know

Android lets you create custom voice actions using the "Routines" feature. Open the Google Home app, tap Routines, and add a new one. You could set a routine called "Start Work" that silences notifications, opens your calendar, and launches your preferred email app – all with one phrase.

Siri Shortcuts work similarly. In the Shortcuts app, tap "Create Shortcut," add actions like "Send Message" or "Play Podcast," then assign a voice phrase. Say "Hey Siri, launch morning mode" and watch your phone handle the routine instantly.

Both assistants also support context‑aware commands. Try "Hey Google, how's the traffic to my office?" and the assistant pulls live maps without you opening Google Maps. On iPhone, "Hey Siri, what’s my battery percentage?" gives a quick read‑out.

Voice commands aren’t just for hands‑free use; they’re great when you’re in a hurry or have limited visibility, like on a crowded train. The key is to keep commands short and specific – the more precise you are, the quicker the assistant responds.

Finally, remember to explore device‑specific voice tricks. Android phones often have hidden "dialer codes" that you can speak, such as "Hey Google, open the secret test menu" (if supported). iOS users can say "Hey Siri, open the diagnostic screen" to get system info.

Start experimenting today: pick one routine, set a voice phrase, and watch your phone obey. The more you use voice commands, the smoother your daily mobile experience becomes.