Step aside iOS users, Uber and WhatsApp have exciting updates ready for you. Following Apple’s announcement to open its virtual assistant, Siri, to developers in iOS 10, it appears that users of both WhatsApp and Uber, on iPhone and iPad, are set for some massive changes.
The revolutionary update means you can now request Siri to send your messages instead of typing them out manually. So, the next time you’re occupied or simply don’t feel like typing, all you need to do is ask your trusty Siri to do the typing for you. Get ready for a pop-up window to display a preview of your message, a convenient function that was traditionally reserved for the built-in messaging application. Once you’re happy with the preview, you can dispatch it to your contacts.
[Add Image of Siri typing a WhatsApp message on iOS 10]
The most enticing aspect of this new functionality is the ability to choose your messaging platform. Siri effectively learns your preferred app for sending messages and subsequently default to this each time you activate the service. For instance, if one of your contacts prefers WhatsApp over plain text messages, Siri is smart enough to use WhatsApp when you say, “Send ‘Hello’ to John.”
Another groundbreaking feature of iOS 10 is granting users the capacity to remove pre-installed apps like iMessage. This gives you the freedom to maintain only the apps that enhance your day-to-day engagements. Although it’s advised to keep the newly styled, and quite enticing, iMessage app as it now has its own App Store.
WhatsApp isn’t alone in embracing the advantages brought on by iOS 10. The Uber app also has a beneficial update for iOS users – you can now ask Siri to hail you a taxi. But it doesn’t stop there, you now have the convenience of booking a ride directly from your Apple Map app via the Ride tab.
[Add Image of Uber and Apple Maps integration on iOS 10]
The introduction of Apple opening its apps ecosystem to third-party developers appears to be welcomed with open arms by various companies. This opens new possibilities for seamless integration and enhanced user functionality across disparate apps and services.
The convenience extends beyond Apple devices, simultaneously, you can book Uber rides from Google Maps as well.
These updates reflect Apple’s focus on improving user experience by integrating smart and convenient features into their systems. Users can look forward to a future of increasingly seamless and personalized functionalities on iOS devices.
This article was updated in 2025 to reflect modern realities.
Paul Balo is the founder of TechBooky and a highly skilled wireless communications professional with a strong background in cloud computing, offering extensive experience in designing, implementing, and managing wireless communication systems.
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