An iOS update to be released later this year will allow Siri to use whatever messaging app they prefer in place of Apple’s Message app. So, if you prefer to use WhatsApp, Siri will automatically send messages via that app also.
In a statement to Bloomberg, Apple said the update will be released later this year. The move comes in the wake of recent criticism as to how Apple’s own apps allegedly dominate the App Store, allowing them to be the default apps on iOS devices, via Siri.
Apple offers our users an experience that is only possible from the integration of hardware, software, and services. From the very first iPhone, we have included apps to provide customers with a great experience right out of the box for making phone calls, playing music, surfing the web, and more.
With every generation of iPhone we have advanced the built in capabilities for our customers with a few default apps designed for great performance, long battery life, seamless integration, and industry-leading protections for security and privacy. We have also created the App Store, the safest place to get apps, so customers can choose from millions of apps to find the ones that further enhance their iPhone.
In the few categories where Apple also has an app, we have many successful competitors and we’re proud that their success is responsible for almost 2 million U.S. jobs in a thriving multibillion dollar market for developers.
Our North Star is always to create the best products for our customers and that is why iPhone has the highest customer satisfaction in the industry.
While the update to iOS will likely take place later this year, note that the new functionality does require developers to add Siri functionality to their apps.