Using TextFree with Siri, Spotlight and Shortcuts (iOS only)

Did you know that you can use TextFree with some of Apple's native features? This article covers the benefits and a how-to guide for using Siri, Spotlight or Shortcuts with TextFree.

Background

Siri: Siri is Apple's digital assistant, which is built in to each of their devices. Siri enables users to interact with their devices hands-free by using voice commands.

Spotlight: Spotlight is the in-built search feature, allowing a high-level search of all apps on your device.

Shortcuts: The iOS Shortcuts app allows you to set up custom shortcuts. A shortcuts menu is also available when holding down on an app's icon.

Benefits

• Quickly sending a text or making a call from your TextFree number
• Searching for a contact without opening the app
• Finding the app more quickly when searching your device

How it works

Using Siri with TextFree

Siri can help you to use voice commands with TextFree.  For further information on how to set up and use Siri, please see Apple's Support article here.

Once enabled, you can ask Siri to perform tasks like sending messages, making calls, or searching for a contact. 

Using Spotlight with TextFree

Spotlight search will include the TextFree app as a top hit, if you use it frequently or have used the app in the last hour. Recent conversations will also show in search results, so you can access them with a single tap.

If you search for TextFree through Spotlight, you will also see the following app shortcuts: Search, Call and Compose.

Using Shortcuts with TextFree

Apple's Shortcuts app can be used to save time, by setting up useful shortcuts. For example, a shortcut to compose a text can be added to your phone's home screen, or set to run at a specific time.

Shortcuts also allows you to hold your finger down on the TextFree app icon, in order to bring up three quick options: Search For Contact, New Call and New Message. Tapping on any of these shortcuts brings you right to the correct page within the app.

For further information on using Shortcuts, check out Apple's Shortcuts User Guide.

Questions? Submit a request.