iOS Siri & Automation Shortcuts
iOS Siri & Automation keyboard shortcuts with key combinations, actions, and usage notes.
How to use this reference
Use this category reference to find shortcuts for the platform shown. Start with the section for your operating system, read the action and description, and try the shortcut in an appropriate application. Keys joined with a plus sign are held together; alternatives let you choose the combination that works on your keyboard. A gesture requires a compatible touchpad or touch screen rather than a physical keyboard.
Before practicing, check which window has focus. Text fields, browser tabs, terminal sessions, and system dialogs can interpret the same keys differently. Save any open work before testing commands that close a window, delete content, or change system settings. Accessibility commands may need to be enabled in settings first, and a laptop may require the Fn key for function keys. If a combination is intercepted by an application or a custom keymap, consult its built-in help and your operating system settings. Follow the full platform guide for related commands and additional context.
iPhone
| Action | Shortcut | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Activate Siri | Side Button (hold) | Hold the Side button and release to speak your Siri request |
| Hey Siri (Hands-Free) | Say 'Hey Siri' or 'Siri' | Just say 'Hey Siri' (or 'Siri' on newer iPhone models) without touching the device |
| Type to Siri | Activate Siri → Type | After activating Siri, type instead of speaking (enable in Settings > Accessibility > Siri) |
| Run a Shortcut | Shortcuts App or 'Hey Siri, run [name]' | Run any automation from the Shortcuts app or by asking Siri |
| Back Tap Action | Double or Triple Tap Back of iPhone | Set in Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap to trigger actions like screenshot or a Shortcut |
| AssistiveTouch Menu | Tap AssistiveTouch Floating Button | A floating on-screen button gives one-tap access to Home, Volume, Siri, and custom gestures |
| Announce Notifications (AirPods) | Siri reads notifications aloud | When wearing AirPods, Siri can announce incoming notifications without you touching the phone |