Apple has dramatically improved Personal Voice, the iPhone feature that lets users create a digital replica of their own voice. In iOS 26, the setup process has been streamlined from a 15-minute ordeal reading 150 prompts to just 10 phrases that take under a minute. The feature now produces a smoother, more natural-sounding voice thanks to Apple Intelligence.

The accessibility tool, found in Settings under Accessibility, was originally designed for users at risk of losing their ability to speak. However, its novelty has made it popular for general use. The upgrade requires an AI-supported iPhone and currently supports English (United States), Spanish (Mexico), and Chinese (Mandarin – China mainland).

Once created, users can apply their Personal Voice across several iPhone functions including Live Speech, Read & Speak, and VoiceOver. Third-party augmentative and alternative communication apps can also request permission to use the voice during calls or through the device's speaker, though they cannot capture speech from it. The most immediate way to use the feature is through Live Speech, activated by triple-clicking the Side Button and entering text prompts.