Apple could let you send money without unlocking your phone, but there's a catch

Tech companies are always looking for ways to improve the value of their ecosystem, and these improvements typically come in the form of new features intended to reduce the time spent on menial tasks. In a nutshell, convenience upgrades.

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Apple has filed a new patent that resembles one of these upgrades, and it involves letting users perform secure voice commands through Siri, which includes granting the AI the ability to send money to other people, or even private data. Here's how it works. A locked iPhone, or any other applicable Apple device, such as an Apple Watch, is listening for natural language input. Siri is then triggered and detects a request similar to this, "Pay Mike $30".

Siri determines if this prompt is a sensitive task by performing a series of checks. If the checks are passed, Siri will then run a pre-authenticated connected accessory through a set of criteria, which includes measuring proximity, recent verification of the device, and secure pairing with the device. If all criteria are met, Siri will then carry out the sensitive task without requiring the user to perform a FaceID scan or enter a passcode. Once the task is completed, Siri provides confirmation via a voice or visual output prompt.

• Read more: 9 hidden iPhone tricks that can save you from identity theft

How would this actually be used? While this is still just in patent form, Apple could very well roll this out in the coming upgrades to Siri, and I can see it being very beneficial to users who want to carry out sensitive tasks during times when they aren't able to pick up their device. For example, driving and wanting to send money or files to your loved one or child with a simple prompt, "Hey Siri, send $20 to Sarah on Apple Cash." The scenario can be applied to someone needing to complete a task while jogging, or working out.

Possible Real-World Use Cases

Send money hands-free

• "Hey Siri, send $20 to Sarah" - authenticated via Apple Watch or AirPods without unlocking your phone.

Control smart home devices while driving

• "Siri, open the garage" or "Turn on the porch lights" - no screen interaction needed.

Check calendar or schedule while your phone is in your pocket

• "Siri, what's on my schedule today?" - secured via proximity to AirPods or Apple Watch.

Send secure files or emails

• "Siri, email the tax return to my accountant" - with authentication via trusted accessory.

Reply to messages privately on the go

• "Siri, text Alex I'm running 5 minutes late" - no need to unlock in public or while jogging.

Access boarding passes or reservations at the airport

• "Siri, show my Qantas boarding pass" - useful while juggling luggage.

Control devices while cooking or multitasking

• "Siri, set a timer for 10 minutes" or "Play my cooking playlist" - hands stay clean, device stays locked.

Log health data during workouts

• "Siri, log my weight" or "How many calories have I burned today?" - via Apple Watch or AirPods.

Authorize purchases securely

• "Siri, confirm my grocery order" or "Complete Apple Pay checkout" - voice-only approval.

Make emergency calls instantly

• "Siri, call emergency contact" - when unlocking your phone may take too long.

Control media or streaming devices

• "Siri, turn on Apple TV" or "Play Stranger Things on Netflix" - voice command from across the room.

Start voice memos or notes on-the-fly

• "Siri, record a new idea" - while walking or during a meeting.