Quadriplegic asking help: Since iOS 26.2 update, many problems with Voice Control and Siri.

I rely on Siri and Voice Control for everything. Since installing iOS 26.2 on my iPhone SE, I've been dead in the water, with several problems:

— Allow Siri When Locked is not working.

— Poor word recognition accuracy with Voice Control. Having to correct every sentence. (Although the microphones seem to work fine.)

— Turning off Voice Control also turns off Siri. Turning on Voice Control again also turns on Siri.

— Voice Control's screen grid doesn't display, and its Screen Numbers feature displays but clicking them works only sometimes.

Unsuccessful fixes include shutting down and turning on iPhone, turning Siri off and on again, retraining Siri, and turning Voice Control off and on again.

— Incoming calls routed automatically to voice mail. We checked several settings for causes, all unsuccessful, so pulled out the Sim card and plugged it in again. For a few minutes calls came through, but then we did a general shutdown and the problem returned. Pulled the Sim card and re-plugged it, now calls are coming through again. However, Allow Siri When Locked and Voice Control are still not working.

Thanks in advance.

iPhone SE, iOS 26

Posted on Jan 20, 2026 9:43 AM

Reply
22 replies

Jan 20, 2026 10:05 PM in response to john4kpft

john4kpft wrote:


— Poor word recognition accuracy with Voice Control. Having to correct every sentence. (Although the microphones seem to work fine.)

Example 1:


If your iPhone dictation consistently types "Kruse" instead of "cruise," here's how you can correct it:


  1. Train the Dictation System
    1. Use dictation in a text field (like Messages or Notes) and say "cruise."
    2. When it types "Kruse," manually edit it to "cruise."
    3. Repeat this a few times. Over time, the dictation system may learn your preference.
  2. Add a Text Replacement
    1. Go to Settings > General > Keyboard > Text Replacement.
    2. Tap the + button to add a new replacement.
    3. In the Phrase field, type "cruise."
    4. In the Shortcut field, type "Kruse."
    5. Now, whenever "Kruse" is mistakenly typed, it will autocorrect to "cruise."
  3. Check Contact Names: (Since K is typed in Capital)
    1. If "Kruse" is a contact in your address book, the system might prioritize it.
    2. Go to Contacts and check for any entries named "Kruse." If it's not needed, consider editing or removing it.
  4. Reset Keyboard Dictionary
    1. If the problem persists, resetting the keyboard dictionary can help:
    2. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Keyboard Dictionary.
    3. Confirm the reset. Note that this will erase all custom words learned by the keyboard.
  5. Test Siri and Enable Siri Pronunciation Feedback
  6. If "Kruse" is related to Siri misunderstanding you, you can provide feedback:
      1. Ask Siri, "Who is Kruse?"
      2. If Siri shows the incorrect suggestion, say, "That's not how you pronounce 'cruise.'"
  7. Follow the prompts to correct the pronunciation.


The takeaway: Siri learns fast!


Example 2:

Choose the correct language where the name is used correclty.


Add a keyboard of the desired language and if the language is supported for dictation then dictation language is automatically added under Settings > General > > Keyboard > Dictation Language


There isn't a strict language division between "Charli" and "Charlie." Both spellings are primarily used in English.


  • Charlie: This is the more common spelling, traditionally used as a masculine name or a nickname for Charles.However, it's becoming increasingly popular as a unisex name.
  • Charli: This is a less common variation, often seen as a more feminine or creative spelling of "Charlie." It can also be a nickname for Charlotte or Charlene.


While some sources suggest a German origin for "Charli," it's not widely recognized and both spellings are considered part of the English language.





Jan 20, 2026 10:03 PM in response to john4kpft

john4kpft wrote:


— Poor word recognition accuracy with Voice Control. Having to correct every sentence. (Although the microphones seem to work fine.)

You may try some of these steps, please check after each step...


  1. Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary software glitches. Turn off your iPhone, wait for a few seconds, and then turn it back on.
    1. Restart the device. That's it.
    2. Still not solved --> Force restart iPhone - Apple Support
  2. Dictation requires an internet connection to work properly. Make sure your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi or cellular data.
  3. Ensure that dictation is enabled on your iPhone. Go to Settings > General > Keyboard, then make sure the "Enable Dictation" option is turned on.
  4. Make sure the language you're trying to dictate in is supported by the dictation feature. You can check and change the language settings in Settings > General > Language & Region.
  5. Ensure that the app you're using for dictation has permission to access the microphone. Go to Settings > Privacy > Microphone, then make sure the toggle switch next to the app is enabled.
  6. Reset Keyboard Dictionary: Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset, then select "Reset Keyboard Dictionary." This will reset any custom words you've added but may resolve issues with dictation.
  7. Reset Network Settings: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings: Only network settings are removed.
    1. When you reset network settings, previously used networks and VPN settings that weren’t installed by a configuration profile or mobile device management (MDM) are removed. Wi-Fi is turned off and then back on, disconnecting you from any network you’re on. The Wi-Fi and Ask to Join Networks settings remain turned on.
    2. To remove VPN settings installed by a configuration profile, go to Settings > General > Profiles & Device Management, select the configuration profile, then tap Remove Profile. This also removes other settings and accounts provided by the profile. See Install or remove configuration profiles on iPhone in this guide.
    3. To remove network settings installed by MDM, go to Settings > General > Profiles & Device Management, select the management, then tap Remove Management. This also removes other settings and certificates provided by MDM. See “Mobile device management (MDM)” in the iOS Deployment Reference.
    4. Reset your Network Settings. Tap Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings. This also resets Wi-Fi networks and passwords, cellular settings, and VPN and APN settings that you've used before.
  8. If the issue persists, you can try resetting all settings on your iPhone. This will not erase your data but will reset all personalized settings to their default values. Go to Settings > General > Transfer & Reset > Reset > Reset All Settings and confirm the action. Note that you will need to reconfigure your settings afterward. All settings—including network settings, the keyboard dictionary, the Home screen layout, location settings, privacy settings, and Apple Pay cards—are removed or reset to their defaults. No data or media are deleted.
    1. Reset All Settings: Return iPhone settings to their defaults - Apple Support:- Return iPhone settings to their defaults
    2. You can return settings to their defaults without erasing your content.
    3. If you want to save your settings, back up your iPhone before returning them to their defaults. For example, if you’re trying to solve a problem but returning settings to their defaults doesn’t help, you might want to restore your previous settings from a backup.
  9. Make sure you have the latest updates installed.
    1. Update Over-the-Air (OTA) —> Update your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support (IN)
    2. Update using iTunes/Finder —> Update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support (IN)


If none of the above steps resolve the issue, it is recommended to reach out to Apple Support or visit an authorized service center for further assistance. They can provide specific guidance based on your device model and iOS version.


Jan 20, 2026 10:08 PM in response to john4kpft

john4kpft wrote:

— Voice Control's screen grid doesn't display, and its Screen Numbers feature displays but clicking them works only sometimes.

Grid, Names and Numbered are as shown below


Settings > Accessibility > Voice Control > Overlay > [Select None]. Probably you have selected Item Numbers.


See the pic below for macOS 26.2


The Pic below is for iOS




Jan 20, 2026 11:10 PM in response to john4kpft

"Quadriplegic asking help: Since iOS 26.2 update, many problems with Voice Control and Siri.: I rely on Siri and Voice Control for everything. Since installing iOS 26.2 on my iPhone SE, I've been dead in the water, with several problems: [...]Thanks in advance."

-------


Report this Big to Apple:

Do your Part: Provide Apple with feedback on this, letting them know about this issue.  Apple may not get back to you directly, but the more feedback they receive on this, the more they will know what is occurring, and what bug fixes to include in updates to come. Apple will know nothing of you occurrences, if you don't report it to them.

  1. Go Here: Feedback - iPhone - Apple
  2. Select: "Bug Report" for the "Feedback Type"
  3. Comment: that this all began after installing an update. Include the URL of this thread.
  4. Proceed from there as necessary

Feb 15, 2026 10:52 PM in response to Jomo223

Thanks for chiming in. Sorry you're having these problems too. Here's an update of my issues with iPhone, Voice Control and Siri since installing iOS 26:


Updated iPhone SE to iOS 26.1 (on 1/17) and 26.2 (2/3), when issues began with Voice Control and Siri, rendering my ilPhone largely unusable since 1/17. Tried forced restart and all of the other measures generously suggested by users above. Apple accessibility support registered my issues but was unable to offer a fix. (A disabled friend of mine is seeing the same issues after the update, and also reported it to accessibility support.) On 2/9, we reset the iPhone at Apple Store.


— Allow Siri When Locked is still not working. [Removed the Sim card 1-24 and iPhone worked on and off for a few hours, then reverted back to unusable.] Currently, iPhone inaccessible to me without someone's help.


— iPhone goes dark even though Low-Power Mode is turned off. Went through several possible fixes and none of them work.


— Poor word recognition accuracy with Voice Control. Frequent repeats of commands. Dictation requires corrections of every sentence. Siri often unresponsive. (Although the microphones seem to work fine.)


— iPad Mini 5th Generation: Updated to iOS 26.1 on 2/7, now has same issues. 2/9 reset device at Apple Store, with no results.


Some of these issues at times disappear then come back again. Techs at the Apple Store and Apple accessibility support both said iOS 26 should be compatible with the SE, but individual cases may vary.


I encourage you to report your issues with accessibility support 877-204-3930 or How to contact Apple for help with accessibility features - Apple Support because when I called they had not heard of anything like what I am experiencing. (Strange, because my friend had already reported his post-update experience.) I have another call scheduled with accessibility support on Tuesday, and will report back here. Good luck.


Feb 21, 2026 5:01 PM in response to Jomo223

Sorry about that. I had written a follow-up and must have neglected to post it. (??) Well, there's good news and bad news:


— When I updated my iPad Mini 5th Generation to iOS 26.1, the same Voice Control/Siri etc. problems showed up. But a few days ago, I updated to iOS 26.3 and now most or all of the issues are fixed.


— However, after the same updates and a few contacts with Apple accessibility support & Apple Store, my iPhone SE is still unusable. It is frustrating hearing from them that the SE should be able to accommodate iOS 26, and our last contact left a bad taste and felt lackadaisical.


If you update, wishing you good luck with iOS 26.3. My home access setup has been down for over a month because of these problems, so I'm shopping for a new phone, Android or iPhone.


Jan 20, 2026 10:20 PM in response to john4kpft

john4kpft wrote:


— Turning off Voice Control also turns off Siri. Turning on Voice Control again also turns on Siri.

iOS 26.2. Siri answered with Voice Control Turned Off




  1. Settings > Siri > Siri Responses > [Choose the way you want] --> Pic 1
  2. Settings > General > Accessibility > Siri > Type to Siri [Disable] --> Pic 2


Pic 1 - Siri responses


Pic 2 --> Type to Siri




You may also look into this for more help --> If Siri or "Hey Siri" isn't working - Apple Support



Jan 20, 2026 10:06 PM in response to john4kpft

john4kpft wrote:


— Incoming calls routed automatically to voice mail. We checked several settings for causes, all unsuccessful, so pulled out the Sim card and plugged it in again. For a few minutes calls came through, but then we did a general shutdown and the problem returned. Pulled the Sim card and re-plugged it, now calls are coming through again. However, Allow Siri When Locked and Voice Control are still not working.
Thanks in advance.

When your iPhone sends incoming calls directly to voicemail or is disconnected after a ring, it might be due to various reasons. This can occur if the recipient's phone is powered off, in a low signal area, or if they have enabled the "Do Not Disturb" mode. Additionally, the contact's number may be blocked or marked as spam.


  1. Check your DND status - If you're experiencing issues with notifications or incoming calls, it's important to check your Do Not Disturb (DND) status. On most devices, you can access this setting by going to "Settings" and selecting "Do Not Disturb." Make sure DND is turned off or adjust the settings to allow desired notifications and calls to come through.
  2. Check BedTime status - If you're using the Bedtime feature on your iPhone, you can track your sleep patterns and set a schedule for waking up and going to bed. To check your Bedtime status, open the "Clock" app and tap on the "Bedtime" tab. Ensure that your sleep schedule is accurately configured, allowing your device to provide sleep analysis and reminders accordingly.
  3. Check your Sound Volume - If you're experiencing low or no sound on your iPhone, it's essential to check your sound volume settings. You can adjust the volume by using the physical volume buttons on the side of your device or by going to "Settings" and selecting "Sounds & Haptics." Ensure that the volume is turned up and not muted.
  4. Check your Ringer switch - If you're not receiving any sound notifications for calls or messages, it's important to check the position of your device's ringer switch. Depending on the model of your iPhone, the ringer switch is located on the side or top of the device. Make sure the switch is not set to the silent or muted position.
  5. Check Call Audio Routing - If you're having issues with audio during calls, such as not hearing the caller or distorted sound, you should check the Call Audio Routing settings. On an iPhone, you can access this by going to "Settings," selecting "Accessibility," and then "Audio/Visual." Ensure that the audio routing is set to the desired option, such as Bluetooth, speaker, or automatic.
  6. Check Auto Answer Calls - If your iPhone is automatically answering calls without your input, it's important to disable the Auto Answer Calls feature. Go to "Settings," select "Accessibility," and then "Touch." From there, disable the "Auto Answer Calls" option to regain control over incoming calls.
  7. Check Connection with Bluetooth Audio - If you're having trouble streaming audio from your iPhone to Bluetooth devices, it's crucial to check the Bluetooth connection. Make sure Bluetooth is turned on in the device settings, and try reconnecting your iPhone to the Bluetooth audio device. If the problem persists, you may need to unpair and repair the devices or troubleshoot further using Apple Support resources.
  8. Check whether in Headset Mode - If your iPhone seems stuck in headphone mode despite no headphones being connected, it could be a software issue. You can try solving this by cleaning the headphone jack with compressed air or gently inserting and removing headphones a few times. If the problem persists, you may need to seek assistance from Apple Support for further troubleshooting steps or possible repairs.
  9. On an iPhone, if the issue is isolated to a single contact, consider verifying the following:
    1. Silence Unknown Callers may be enabled, and the individual's phone number is not stored in your Contacts.
    2. The contact’s phone number may be incorrectly formatted or saved with an invalid or missing international dialing prefix.


Jan 20, 2026 10:01 PM in response to john4kpft

It's not always the iOS update's fault!  Many things can cause phone problems.  If you tell people you think it's an iOS update, it might make it harder to fix or find a solution for the real issue.



Remember, the right question often leads to the solution!



Was/Is your device Jailbroken? If that's the situation, please be informed that attributing the issues to iOS updates may not be accurate.



iOS updates aim to enhance user experience, boost security, and fix bugs rather than disrupt core features. The majority of the issues after updates might stem from underlying, unmentioned factors. Updates won't typically alter personal data but may refine settings or features. Backup before major updates for safety. Review Apple's update details and backup advice for a smooth process.


Kindly consider checking your settings and addressing any device issues before attributing the issue to external factors. This could be a pure coincidence that the iOS update affected the iPhone functions.


Before initiating a standard iOS update, it's advisable to create a backup. Have you completed this step? If yes, proceed with the restoration from the backup.



See what each update does: OS — iOS 26, About iOS 18 Updates, About iOS 17 Updates, About iOS 16 Updates, About iOS 15 Updates, About iOS 14 Updates, About iOS 13 Updates, About iOS 12 Updates, and so on...



Jan 21, 2026 6:10 PM in response to SravanKrA

Thanks very much for your assistance here! The good news is that many of these lost functions have been restored: dialing and receiving calls, Voice Control functions like screen grid and Show Numbers, and much better dictation accuracy again. For a time, Siri was responding when the iPhone was locked, but that capability has disappeared again. Voice Control's Show Numbers now works sometimes, and other times is unresponsive. I've worked my way through half of your suggestions so far, and will continue with them when my wife is available to unlock my iPhone.


Also, from the descriptions I don't believe it's been jailbroken. I followed my standard practice and responded to a notification in Settings, reading about the update before agreeing to it. I will begin backing up my system before updates, thanks.


We weren't able to force restart the way it was described in the instructions, but have shut down and restarted the iPhone.



Feb 15, 2026 2:48 PM in response to Jomo223

Going to go through all the steps that you kindly suggested because they should not be the update is not working so the settings should not have any effect when we change them try into settings correctly and if I was to do the backup et cetera I have no way of doing that, I did not take her back up before I have already gone through the settings since they installed back to my preferences handle it

Feb 15, 2026 2:51 PM in response to Jomo223

I am hundred percent sure in my mind but definitely update fault. Sometimes writing is sometimes just one word and then another word next too many words from each other. To see that you have the same exact functionality issues confirms that it is the update. Two days ago so I'm not sure why you we have managed to had some issues improve. Two days ago update what about you install it in January question

Quadriplegic asking help: Since iOS 26.2 update, many problems with Voice Control and Siri.

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