Siri Goes Handsfree Thanks To In Car Bluetooth
by Matthew Sims
November 30, 2011
It seems like everyday we're finding more and more things that Siri can do to make our lives easier. Today is no different as the team over at AutoBlog have tested Siri through several different car setups to see if it was possible to use the popular iPhone 4S feature with the car's handsfree Bluetooth system.
The result? Yes, it is possible. After paring Siri with two Mercedes Benz models, a Dodge Charger, a Chrysler 300, and a Nissan Maxima, the Nissan gave the best results. It looks as if microphone placement and cabin noise are the culprits on the other models that didn't work as well. I'd have guessed the Mercedes would have the quieter cabin.
The overall in-car experience could be better if Apple added a simple handsfree mode that would allow drivers to activate Siri through a voice command or unused button on the car's steering wheel.
When you hold down the home button to activate Siri (not exactly handsfree) the car's Bluetooth system treats it as an incoming call, muting any current audio playing. Then just speak aloud your command, depending on the aforementioned mic placement and cabin noise in your car, you may have to repeat it a few times.
Like most of Siri's beta uses, it isn't the most reliable thing, but we're just going to have to make due until Apple builds a lof of these features directly into iOS. Make sure you watch the video below, via AutoBlog, for the full walkthrough and test results.
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