How many of you have Siri, Apple’s voice over the iPhone? Am I the only who thinks sometimes Siri can be a little too real, intelligent and quick witted for a smartphone voice? Well, for one 13-year old boy and his mother, Siri might just be the best friend they’ve ever had.
The boy’s name is Gus. He has autism, a disorder that can be socially crippling for any child. According to the New York Times story,? the Mom notices when Gus was questioning Siri about the weather, and the conversation between a teenager and his phone became a little deeper. Gus complimented Siri about her helpfulness and asked her if she wanted anything. Siri replied, “Thank you but I have few wants.”? As early as eight years old, Gus has always had a fascination for travel and weather. But sometimes mom got? exhausted at the constant questioning. So one birthday, she got Gus an iPhone, and the conversations have never stopped. No topic is off limit is off limits between Gus and Siri, whether it be music, etiquette, marriage, even correction. Check out the story in the article of when Gus’s brother curses at Siri. And at thirteen, in the midst of this maze called adolescence, the questions aren’t going to get any easier. I hope Siri is ready.
All too often I read about how technology can be a potential danger and intrusive to society. But it takes stories like this to remind us what good it’s doing in the world. Through Siri, Gus is getting a great education and even greater companionship. Siri is helping him open up to society. I don’t know if he would have gotten that otherwise. Gus is heading into his teen years, years that can be difficult and burdensome for any young person. So Gus and Siri are going to need each other more than ever. What dating advice will Siri give Gus?