iPhone 3GS and iPod touch (Late 2009)*: Tips and tricks when using Voice Control

Using the microphone

• Use the microphone on your headset. For iPhone 3GS, you can also use the built-in microphone, a Bluetooth headset, or a compatible Bluetooth car-kit*.
• For best results when you're using headphones with a built-in microphone, let the cord with the built-in microphone hang freely. Avoid holding the cord with the microphone or bringing it closer to your mouth. When the headphones are in your ear and the cord dangles freely, the microphone is in the optimum position.
• For best results when you're using the built-in microphone on iPhone 3GS, hold iPhone like you were on a telephone call. If holding it in front of yourself, you can hold it up to 12 inches with the built-in microphone facing you.
• If you are using a carrying case and experiencing some issues with Voice Control, the microphone may be blocked. Try removing the carrying case.

When to speak

• After you press and hold the Home button, you will be prompted by an audible tone to speak a command.
• When using a Bluetooth headset, press and hold the "call" button until the Voice Control screen appears.
• Always wait until the prompt is complete before you start speaking. Any words you speak while iPhone is giving the prompt will be ignored.
• Be ready to speak when the beep has completed. Long pauses may cause unexpected results.

For voice dialing (iPhone 3GS only)

• Some short names may be too similar and may be hard to distinguish by themselves. For best results with these kinds of names, try saying both the first and last name.
• If you're having difficulties getting iPhone to recognize a particular name, try editing the contact, tap Add Field, and add a unique nick name.
• Avoid possessive names. Instead of saying "call Frank's mobile" try "call Frank on his mobile."

For music playback

• You can play all songs in an album, playlist, or by an artist. The device will not recognize commands to play a particular song.
• If you can't get the device to recognize the album or artist name, try telling it to play a particular playlist.
• If an artist has "The" in the name, make sure you say it.