iOS 14.5 Public Beta: Siri Learns New Tricks and Apple Watch Saves the Day (Again)

Apple’s commitment to enhancing user experience is once again on display with the iOS 14.5 public beta, offering a glimpse into the future of iPhone functionality. While Apple has historically favored its own services, a welcomed shift is underway, providing users with greater choice and customization. The latest beta introduces a feature that many have longed for: the ability to select a default music streaming service for Siri. Alongside this, the beta also introduces a clever integration with Apple Watch to simplify unlocking iPhones while wearing masks, a timely solution for the current world.

The most exciting addition for many is undoubtedly the ability to choose a preferred music streaming service when using Siri. Previously, when a user asked Siri to play music without specifying an app, the assistant would automatically default to Apple Music. This could be frustrating for users heavily invested in other streaming services like Spotify, Pandora, or YouTube Music. The new beta changes this dynamic.

As first discovered by eagle-eyed Redditors, asking Siri to play a song or artist in iOS 14.5 will now trigger a prompt asking the user to select their preferred music app. This menu presents a list of installed music applications, allowing users to choose between Apple Music, Spotify, Podcasts, and even the Books app (for reasons that remain somewhat unclear). This selection promises a more personalized and convenient music listening experience.

The implications of this feature are significant. For years, users have felt subtly pushed towards Apple’s own services. While Apple Music is a robust platform with a vast library, many users have already established playlists, preferences, and listening habits on alternative platforms. The ability to now seamlessly integrate these existing services with Siri voice commands eliminates a major point of friction and allows users to enjoy their preferred music ecosystem without compromise.

While the feature is still in its beta phase and thus prone to quirks, the potential is undeniable. Early reports suggest that once a user selects a preferred music app, Siri will attempt to default to that app for subsequent music requests. However, some users have reported inconsistent behavior, with Siri occasionally reverting to Apple Music or re-prompting the user to select an app. These inconsistencies are likely bugs that will be ironed out as the beta progresses and Apple refines the feature based on user feedback.

One user reported that during testing, Siri would sometimes default to Spotify as expected, other times open Apple Music inexplicably, and yet other times bring up the selection menu again, highlighting the current state of inconsistency. Nevertheless, the fact that this option exists at all in the public beta indicates Apple’s willingness to address user preferences.

This move follows a recent trend of Apple loosening its grip on default app settings. With iOS 14, Apple introduced the ability to change default mail and browser apps to non-Apple options like Chrome and Gmail. These changes reflect a growing recognition that users value choice and customization. Allowing users to select their preferred services creates a more personalized and user-friendly experience, ultimately fostering greater customer satisfaction.

Beyond the music app selection, the iOS 14.5 public beta also introduces another standout feature that is especially relevant in the era of mask-wearing. This feature allows users to unlock their iPhone using their Apple Watch, provided that the Apple Watch is unlocked and on their wrist. This integration eliminates the need to manually enter a passcode every time the user attempts to unlock their iPhone while wearing a mask, streamlining a process that has become a daily annoyance for millions.

The setup is relatively straightforward. Users need to enable the "Unlock with Apple Watch" setting in their iPhone’s settings menu. Once enabled, the iPhone will automatically unlock when it detects that the user is wearing a mask and the paired Apple Watch is unlocked and nearby. The process is secure, as the Apple Watch provides a secure authentication factor.

While unlocking an iPhone with an Apple Watch may only save a few seconds each time, the cumulative time saved throughout the day can be significant. More importantly, the feature significantly reduces frustration and makes using an iPhone while wearing a mask a much smoother experience. The user experience has been tested over several days and found the feature to work reliably.

The ability to unlock the iPhone with an Apple Watch is not just a convenient feature; it’s a testament to Apple’s ability to adapt and innovate in response to changing circumstances. The pandemic has forced us to rethink many aspects of our daily lives, and Apple has responded by providing a practical solution to a common problem.

The iOS 14.5 public beta is a promising update that offers a glimpse into the future of iPhone functionality. The ability to select a default music streaming service for Siri and the Apple Watch unlock feature are both welcome additions that enhance the user experience. These features demonstrate Apple’s commitment to providing users with greater choice, customization, and convenience. While the beta is still in its early stages and some bugs may be present, the potential of these new features is undeniable.

Ultimately, the iOS 14.5 public beta is a compelling reason for iPhone users to explore Apple’s latest software offerings. It’s a step forward in granting users more control over their digital lives and streamlining everyday tasks. In 2021, where time is precious and convenience is paramount, these tiny victories are worth celebrating. Saving time and streaming music better is a welcome improvement, and users are eager to see how Apple continues to refine and enhance these features in the final release.