Apple Unveils Support for External Voice Assistants through Side Button in Japan

### Apple Unveils Side Button Personalization for Voice Applications in Japan

A recent update from Apple’s Developer blog indicates that users in Japan will soon have the option to reassign the side button on their iPhones to activate third-party voice-driven conversational applications instead of Siri. This feature is included in the upcoming iOS 26.2 update, which is currently undergoing beta testing.

#### Currently Exclusive to Japan?

Recent findings in the iOS 26.2 beta 3 code demonstrate that Apple is working on a new capability that enables users to customize the assistant triggered by the side button. A new system application, known as ‘SystemVoiceAssistant,’ is tied to this feature, hinting at a major transformation in user interactions with their devices.

As stated in Apple’s documentation, this feature will initially be available exclusively in Japan. Developers can utilize the App Intents framework to enable users to access their app’s features directly via the side button. This implies that users could potentially launch a voice-driven app instantly by pressing the side button.

#### Guidelines for Developers

Apple has provided detailed instructions for developers to activate their voice-driven conversational applications for this new capability:

1. **Include Entitlement**: Developers need to add the `com.apple.developer.side-button-access.allow` entitlement within their app’s Xcode project.

2. **Develop App Intent**: An app intent that complies with the `activate` app intent schema must be developed.

3. **Set Up Audio Session**: In the `perform()` implementation of the app intent, developers should proceed to the scene that offers voice functionality and establish an audio session.

Apple highlights that, as users anticipate immediate engagement with the voice assistant upon pressing the side button, developers should ensure their applications are prepared to respond promptly.

#### Prospective Availability

Although Apple has not verified that this feature will be accessible with the official rollout of iOS 26.2, the recent code revisions imply that a launch is probable soon. The documentation also provides sample code to help developers in implementing this new capability.

At this moment, the feature is confined to Japan, and it is yet to be determined if Apple will extend this feature to additional regions in the future. Developers and users are encouraged to express their opinions regarding the possibility of wider availability in the comments section of the announcement.

For further details and to access Apple’s sample code, visit the

iPadOS 26.2 Beta 3 Brings Major Improvements to Slide Over and Split View Functions

### iPadOS 26.2 Updates: Reviving Slide Over and Split View Functions

iPadOS 26 brought a substantial transformation to the multitasking experience on the iPad, but it also stirred controversy by eliminating the Slide Over feature and essential elements of Split View. This choice faced a substantial backlash from users who appreciated these functionalities for their productivity.

In response to user input, Apple launched iPadOS 26.1, which reintroduced a revised version of Slide Over. Nonetheless, the improvements did not entirely meet the expectations of all users, as some functions were still missing. With the recent launch of iPadOS 26.2 beta 3, Apple has implemented further enhancements to both Slide Over and Split View, addressing some of the issues raised by the iPad community.

#### Noteworthy New Features in iPadOS 26.2

One of the most distinguished updates in iPadOS 26.2 is the reinstatement of the capability to drag apps from the dock into Slide Over or Split View mode. This feature enables users to swiftly and intuitively place an app in a floating window or alongside another app, improving the multitasking abilities of the iPad.

When dragging an app icon, users will notice a visual preview that shows whether the app will be positioned in Split View, Slide Over, or as a complete window. This feature reflects the user experience from iPadOS 18, making it recognizable and easy to navigate for longtime iPad users.

Despite these advancements, certain restrictions persist. The Slide Over feature still does not allow for stacking multiple apps, and it necessitates the new windowing mode introduced in iPadOS 26, implying it is incompatible with Full Screen Apps mode.

#### Summary

The updates in iPadOS 26.2 signify a crucial move towards reinstating the multitasking experience that numerous users valued prior to iPadOS 26. Apple’s attentiveness to user feedback illustrates its dedication to enhancing the iPad experience. As users continue to acclimate to the evolving features of iPadOS, these enhancements in Slide Over and Split View are likely to be embraced by those seeking a more effective multitasking setting.

iOS 26.2 Leak Indicates Possibility of Users Setting a Different Assistant as Default Instead of Siri on iPhone

**iOS 26.2 Beta 3: New Features and Possible Adjustments**

iOS 26.2 beta 3 has been unveiled, presenting intriguing updates, including improvements to AirDrop and the Measure app. Nonetheless, the most notable alteration suggested in this beta version is the opportunity for users to substitute Siri with third-party voice assistants when activating them through the iPhone’s side button.

### Third-Party Assistant Compatibility

The code within iOS 26.2 beta 3, as reported by 9to5Mac, suggests that Apple is gearing up to permit users to call upon third-party AI assistants via the side button, effectively replacing Siri. This functionality is associated with a new system app known as ‘SystemVoiceAssistant,’ which seems to facilitate the selection of various voice assistants.

The code contains references to a ‘Side Button App’ and several strings that imply users will have the ability to assign a voice-enabled app to the side button. Some notable code strings are:

– “Assign a voice-enabled app to the Side Button”
– “ASSISTANT_AVAILABILITY_PROMPT” = “%@ will be accessible once it completes downloading.”
– “APP_NOT_AVAILABLE_FOR_SIDE_BUTTON_IN_REGION = “%@ cannot be used with the Side Button in your region.”

The final string indicates that the availability of this functionality may be region-dependent, which could be vital for its rollout.

### Adherence to EU Regulations

This update holds particular importance as it aligns with Apple’s initiatives to adhere to the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the European Union. iOS 26.2 is anticipated to be the final significant software update before the holiday period, creating a strategic moment for Apple to enact necessary compliance actions prior to the year-end deadline.

While Apple has not officially validated these alterations, it seems probable that the option to utilize third-party assistants via the side button may be confined to users in the EU.

### Conclusion

With the launch of iOS 26.2 beta 3, users might soon have the capability to exchange Siri for their preferred voice assistant, boosting the adaptability and personalization of the iPhone experience. As the release date draws near, it will be captivating to observe how these features are executed and whether they will be accessible globally or limited to specific locales. Users are invited to express their opinions on whether they would opt to replace Siri with another assistant in the comments.

Latest Additions and Enhancements in iOS 26.2 Beta 3

Apple is still in the process of testing the forthcoming iPhone software update, having released iOS 26.2 beta 3 today. The pre-release update incorporates an unexpected number of modifications and enhancements. Here’s a summary of what’s new thus far:

## AirDrop Codes

Apple is working on a new AirDrop feature that enables users to AirDrop between devices without needing to have each other saved as contacts for 30 days. iOS 26.2 beta 3 is the initial version to unveil preliminary indications of this functionality in the AirDrop section of Settings.

[Discover more about the forthcoming AirDrop codes feature here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/17/ios-26-2s-new-airdrop-feature-upgrade-revealed-in-beta-3/)

## Liquid Glass Level

Recently, Apple launched a completely new Liquid Glass-themed Level design within the Measure app in iOS 26.2 beta 2. In iOS 26.2 beta 3, Apple has further enhanced the design to ensure visibility of the numbers displayed in various scenarios.

[Learn more about the newly designed feature here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/17/ios-26-2-adds-a-cool-liquid-glass-effect-to-the-native-level-tool/)

## iPadOS Split View and Slide Over

Apple reintroduced Slide Over in iPadOS 26.1, and now they’re enhancing another multitasking feature that was overlooked from iOS 18. Beginning with iPadOS 26.2 beta 3, users can drag an app icon out of the Dock to activate Slide Over or Split View during multitasking.

[Read more about these multitasking updates here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/17/slide-over-ipados-26-2-update-feature/)

## Default Voice Assistant Code

Leaked coding suggests that Apple is developing a feature that will allow users to replace invoking Siri as the default action when pressing the side button. This will likely be exclusively available in the EU due to regulatory requirements.

[Explore more about the leaked code references here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/17/ios-26-2-leak-shows-iphone-might-let-you-replace-siri-as-default-assistant/)

Today’s updates build on what we saw in iOS 26.2 beta 1 and 2.

## Games App Navigation

The Games app has introduced sorting and filtering options to the library, controller navigation, and real-time score updates during gameplay.

[Read more about the enhancements to the games app here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/12/ios-26-2s-apple-games-app-has-three-new-improvements/)

## Measure Redesign

The Level feature within the Measure app incorporates a Liquid Glass design.

[Find out more about the redesign here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/12/ios-26-2-adds-a-cool-liquid-glass-effect-to-the-native-level-tool/)

## Messages CarPlay Update

Users can now disable pinned conversations for Messages in CarPlay Settings.

[Read more about this update here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/12/ios-26-2-lets-you-disable-new-carplay-feature-in-messages/)

## More

– The animations when tapping buttons to access menus have become significantly smoother.

## Edge Light Feature on macOS 26 Tahoe

Apple is rolling out a new built-in feature for Mac named Edge Light. It creates a virtual ring light using the screen of your Mac to improve lighting during video calls.

[Learn more about Edge Light on the Mac and its functionality here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/12/macos-26-2-adds-new-edge-light-feature/)

## Sleep Score Changes

Apple is modifying how Sleep Score functions for sleep tracking. Very High will replace Excellent as the top tier, and the criteria for each category have also been adjusted. This change is a response to user feedback indicating that the Sleep Score range was too broad and that Excellent conveyed an overly favorable impression.

[Discover more about the change here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/04/watchos-26-2-sleep-score-changes-apple-watch/)

## Apple Podcasts App Enhancements

Apple is leveraging AI to enhance the Apple Podcasts app experience. Commencing with iOS 26.2, the app can utilize AI to automatically create chapters, link to referenced podcasts, and gather show links.

Data Brokers Trade Your Sensitive Information Every Day to the Highest Bidder

### The Concealed Expense of Free Applications: Grasping Data Privacy

In the current digital era, the saying “if you’re not paying for the product, you are the product” is especially applicable for numerous free applications and services. Although these platforms provide their offerings without any financial charge, they frequently capitalize on user data, selling personal details to data brokers. This article explores the ramifications of this approach and provides guidance on safeguarding your personal information.

#### The Data Collection Environment

Countless free apps and online services gather a broad spectrum of personal information, ranging from basic identifiers like email addresses to more sensitive data such as location information and browsing behaviors. Privacy policies, which are often lengthy and laden with legal terminology, usually specify the types of data gathered and the reasons for its utilization. A frequently encountered phrase in these policies is the vague “sharing certain data with trusted partners,” which effectively enables companies to sell your information to data brokers.

#### Dangers Linked to Data Sharing

The repercussions of data sharing can differ. On one hand, advertisers leverage this information to offer personalized advertisements, boosting their marketing efficiency. Conversely, the data amassed can be a treasure trove for cybercriminals and identity thieves. Data brokers, who compile and sell personal details, are prime targets for hackers. A determined individual can often unearth a trove of personal information, including phone numbers, home addresses, and workplaces, with little effort.

#### The Struggle of Data Deletion

Erasing personal data from the internet is a formidable challenge. It involves reaching out to various companies and maneuvering through complex removal procedures, which are frequently designed to be cumbersome. This endeavor is not only labor-intensive but also perpetual, as new data is constantly added to differing platforms.

#### Strategies for Data Privacy

To address the obstacles of data removal, services like [Incogni](https://bit.ly/444f32v) provide a remedy. Incogni focuses on eliminating personal information from data brokers and people search websites, offering a continual service that adjusts to changes in your personal situation, such as relocating or changing employment. With an unlimited plan, users can report newly identified data, and Incogni will manage the removal process, alleviating the hassle of dealing with individual companies.

#### Conclusion

As the digital environment keeps evolving, recognizing the consequences of data sharing is vital for protecting your personal information. By taking initiative and utilizing services designed to defend your data, you can make substantial strides toward preserving your privacy in an increasingly connected world. For those interested,