Voice Commands You’ll Actually Use

This month, we’re exploring simple voice commands that can make your daily tech interactions easier and more efficient.

Why Use Voice Commands?

Voice commands let you control your phone without needing to look at the screen or tap any buttons. They’re perfect when:

• Your hands are busy cooking or gardening
• You’re driving and need to stay focused on the road
• Small text is difficult to read
• You want to save time on typing

Getting Started

For iPhone users: Say “Hey Siri” or hold down the side button.

For Android users: Say “Hey Google” or “OK Google” or swipe from the bottom corner of your screen.

Voice Commands Worth Trying

For Everyday Tasks:

• “Set a timer for 20 minutes” (perfect for cooking or keeping track of laundry)
• “Remind me to take my medication at 8 PM”
• “What’s the weather today?” or “Will it rain tomorrow?”
• “Call Susan” (makes hands-free calling simple)
• “Text Mary I’ll be there in 15 minutes” (no typing needed!)

For Finding Information:

• “How do I get to the library?” (starts navigation)
• “What time does the pharmacy close?”
• “Convert 2 tablespoons to teaspoons”
• “What’s the news today?” (gets a quick news summary)

For Entertainment:

• “Play some jazz music”
• “Open Facebook”
• “Show me photos from last Christmas”

Tips for Success

• Speak clearly but naturally—no need to shout
• If your phone doesn’t understand, try rephrasing your request
• Add contacts’ nicknames by saying “Remember that Susan is my sister” for easier calling

Fun Fact

Did you know you can even ask your phone to tell you a joke? Try saying “Tell me a joke” next time you need a chuckle!

Author: Pam Overly

Digital and Media Manager for New Westsiders (NWS). I moved to Avon Lake from Overland Park, Kansas, in 2013 and joined NWS later that year. I’ve served on the board as Historian and President and have also chaired several interest groups.