Apple on Tuesday issued an update to its official Apple Store app, delivering Siri Shortcuts integration that, come Oct. 19, will afford iPhone Upgrade Program subscribers the ability to pre-order iPhone XR using nothing more than their voice.
Siri Shortcuts integration is the highlight feature of Apple's Apple Store app update, which reached version 5.1.1 today.
With the new capability, iPhone Upgrade Program members will be able to quickly access the iPhone XR landing page when pre-orders begin on Oct. 19.
To use the feature, users simply tap the "Add to Siri" button during the pre-approval process and record a custom voice command. Apple suggests the phrase "pre-order my iPhone." Like iPhone XS and XS Max, the Apple Store app is facilitating pre-approvals to streamline the pre-order process which goes live later this month.
Once pre-orders begin, those who have saved the Siri Shortcut can trigger Siri using their custom phrase, which pulls up pre-approval information in the App Store app. From there, users need only to complete the order and check out.
In addition to Siri Shortcuts integration, the Apple Store app update brings support for Apple Watch Series 4's larger screen sizes.
Unveiled at a special event in September, iPhone XR is Apple's more affordable alternative to this year's flagship X-series handsets. The device boasts cutting edge technologies including the TrueDepth camera system and Face ID biometric security, a revamped rear-facing shooter with single-lens Portrait Mode photography, dual-SIM capability and Apple's new A12 Bionic processor.
Instead of an OLED display, iPhone XR cuts costs by using a 6.1-inch "Liquid Retina" LCD screen and aluminum chassis, the latter of which allows Apple to offer the phone in a range of colors.
Apple is scheduled to take iPhone XR pre-orders live on Oct. 19. Prices start at $749 or $37.41 per month for iPhone Upgrade Program members.
The Apple Store app for iOS is a free 86.8MB download from the App Store.