Siri Not Working Properly on iPhone XS Max? Here’s How to Fix It

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If Siri on your iPhone XS Max stops working, works only sometimes, or completely ignores you, you’re not alone. Whether it’s intermittent voice command failures or total silence from your virtual assistant, this guide covers the most effective ways to get Siri working reliably again.

1. Make Sure Siri Is Fully Enabled

Siri needs all its options turned on to work as expected.

Here’s how to check:

  1. Go to Settings > Siri & Search.
  2. Make sure all three are enabled:
    • Listen for “Hey Siri”
    • Press Side Button for Siri
    • Allow Siri When Locked

If any of these are off, Siri may respond inconsistently or not at all.

2. Enable Location Services for Siri

Siri often uses your location to provide relevant answers.

To enable:

  1. Go to Settings > Privacy > Location Services.
  2. Toggle Location Services ON.
  3. Scroll down to Siri & Dictation, and set it to While Using the App.

3. Check Your Internet Connection

Siri needs an active internet connection to fetch answers and run most commands.

  • Make sure you’re connected to a strong Wi-Fi or cellular network.
  • Try loading a webpage to test your connection.
  • If your signal is weak, Siri may time out or stop working intermittently.

4. Force Reboot Your iPhone

Random bugs can cause temporary Siri issues.

To force restart iPhone XS Max:

  1. Press and quickly release Volume Up.
  2. Press and quickly release Volume Down.
  3. Press and hold the Side button until you see the Apple logo.

5. Reset All Settings

Misconfigured settings or app conflicts can interfere with Siri.

To reset all settings:

  1. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset.
  2. Tap Reset All Settings.
  3. Enter your passcode to confirm.

This won’t erase your data, but it will reset Wi-Fi networks, Bluetooth, and system preferences.

6. Try a DFU Restore (Last Resort)

If Siri still isn’t working and you’ve tried everything, a clean install via DFU mode might help.

Steps:

  1. Connect your iPhone to your computer and open iTunes or Finder.
  2. Press and release Volume Up, then Volume Down, then hold the Side button until the screen goes black.
  3. Once black, hold Volume Down while still holding the Side button for 5 seconds.
  4. Release the Side button but keep holding Volume Down until iTunes/Finder detects your iPhone in recovery mode.
  5. Click Restore iPhone.

This will wipe your device—back up your data first.

7. Clean the Microphone and Speaker Areas

Siri won’t respond well if it can’t hear you or if you can’t hear it.

  • Clean your microphones and speakers with a soft, dry brush or cloth.
  • Remove any case that might block mic ports.

8. Test for Microphone or Speaker Issues

Try using Voice Memos or make a phone call.

  • If the other person can’t hear you (or you can’t hear them), the mic or speaker may be the issue—not Siri.
  • Visit an Apple Store or authorized service center for diagnostics.

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