Use Siri Without Unlocking Your iPad

The ability to access Siri from the Lock screen can be a good thing, but for security-conscious people, it’s still a way to access the iPad. You can adjust a setting that turns this on or off without completely turning off Siri.

Turn Siri Off Completely

If you don’t ever use Siri, turn it off. This will stop anyone, including you, from using it on the Lock screen or at any other time. Here’s how to do it.

How to Further Secure Your Lock Screen

It may not be enough to disable Siri on the Lock screen. You can also access notifications and the Today view, which is a snapshot of the calendar, reminders, and any widgets you have installed. The iPad will also show new notifications. For those who want quick access to this information, having access to it on the Lock screen is handy. But if you don’t want a stranger, co-worker, or friend to have access, turn both off in the same section of the Touch ID and Passcode settings you used to turn Siri off. You can also control smart devices in your home without unlocking your iPad. Home Control works with lights, thermostats, and other gadgets that you’ve made smart in your home. Trying to open a smart lock or raise a smart garage door requires your passcode if you are on the Lock screen. But if you’re going to take the time to lock out Siri and notifications, lock out Home Control, too.