Apple has officially launched Vietnamese language support for Siri, the virtual assistant widely known among iPhone users, marking a significant step for Vietnamese speakers. This feature has been made available through the iOS 18.4 beta 1 update, released primarily for developers. After 14 years of waiting, this enhancement brings much-needed accessibility to the Vietnamese market.
Siri, introduced by Apple back in 2011, has gained popularity worldwide due to its natural language processing capabilities and deep integration within Apple's ecosystem. Before now, Vietnamese users had to rely on using Siri in English or other languages, which often resulted in limited utility. With the introduction of this new feature, iPhone users can now command Siri to execute various tasks like making calls, sending messages, fetching information, and setting alarms—all by speaking Vietnamese.
Users will need to read five designated sentences to establish Siri's recognition of their unique pronunciation and accents, which can vary greatly across Vietnamese regions. Once set up, users can activate Siri by simply saying, “Hey, Siri.” This new addition includes four distinct voice options, allowing users to choose one they’re comfortable with, optimizing the interaction process.
Despite this breakthrough, there’s still work to be done before Siri fully meets user expectations. Apple has stated its AI component, Apple Intelligence, which enhances Siri’s functionality, will not support Vietnamese until 2025. Consequently, more advanced capabilities like summarizing content or intelligent suggestions remain unavailable for now.
To experience Siri’s functionality in Vietnamese, users are required to enroll in Apple’s developer beta program. This involves going to Settings, selecting General, then Software Update, and registering for the beta update. Downloading the iOS 18.4 beta 1 will allow users to start using this long-awaited feature, though they are also cautioned to expect potential bugs and incomplete functionalities, typical with beta versions. The official release of the update is anticipated to happen by the end of March, providing more stable features for everyday users.
The launch of Vietnamese language support for Siri signifies Apple’s increasing investment and focus on the Vietnamese market, reflecting changing dynamics and user demographics. For many, this upgrade isn't just about technology; it's about connecting with their culture and language. The long-awaited functionality has excited many iPhone developers and users alike, proving Apple's dedication to making technology more inclusive.
Interestingly, the launch occurs against the backdrop of privacy concerns surrounding Siri's data collection practices raised by various advocacy groups. Earlier, the French Human Rights League (LDH) had filed complaints against Apple, accusing them of illegal data collection involving users' personal recordings from Siri, violating privacy rights. There's sizeable concern about how companies manage user data, showcasing the need for transparency at such firms.
But for the moment, excitement reigns among Vietnamese users who can now use Siri as it was always intended—a helpful companion aiding them through voice-activated tasks—making this update not just timely, but transformative, with respect to integrating technology effectively within users’ daily lives.
Looking forward, as the technology continues to evolve and more features become available, user experience and interaction with Siri are set to improve significantly. With Apple leading the way, the company seems poised to reshape how millions of Vietnamese speakers interact with technology—bridging long-standing gaps and reinforcing Apple's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility across its product offerings.