They represent some of the most innovative ways in which Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) and Google (NASDAQ:GOOG) are trying to increase engagement with consumers, but developers couldn't get enough of the humor inspired by a mock feud between iOS virtual assistant Siri and the wearable technology Google Glass last week.
As first reported by The Verge, some users discovered that if they responded to Apple's voice recognition-based Siri with answers like, "Okay, Glass," the system would send back snappy retorts. These included "I'm not Glass, and I'm fine with that," and "this Glass is half-empty."
A few developers online seemed to like the Apple assistant's seemingly quick-witted zingers.
Google Glass? Siri will sass you back if you call her "Glass", she ain't got time for that http://t.co/k9PrcBYPTq
— Jessy Irwin (@jessysaurusrex) August 27, 2013
Some wondered why the virtual assistants couldn't just get along.
How pathetic and childish. http://t.co/MyUMk3F2iO
— Kheldarn (@Kheldarn) August 27, 2013
If Apple was hoping the publicity stunt would get more users interested in Siri, there were signs it was working.
This motivated me to "unbox" Siri RT @nytimesbits: Apple's Siri is being a little catty with Google Glass. http://t.co/NJzc1hsKTg
— haiyan zhang (@haiyan) August 27, 2013
Others interpreted Siri's comments as another example of Apple acting like a poseur.
Siri Strikes Back at Google 'OK Glass' Commands http://t.co/JPI64bVQyS via @mashable / Apple trying to be cool?
— OtroPX (@OtroPX) August 29, 2013
Typical Siri. A little bit of envy? ;)"@CTTechServices: Siri's attitude towards google glass. http://t.co/8ihZ1KqJTn #Google #Tech #Apple"
— Acumatica (@Acumatica) August 26, 2013
Of course, the best part of the fun was sharing your favorite Siri one-liners:
"Stop trying to strap me to your forehead. It won't work." http://t.co/TwETtBlhtg
— William M (@talesonrails) August 26, 2013
In the end, however, what will matter to most Siri users is not how funny she is, but whether she functions as needed. A few developers suggested Apple still has some work to do in this area.
Didn't work for me on iOS7! RT @appletweets: Apple's Siri now takes swipes at Google's 'half-empty' Glass: http://t.co/WBOqP3xJA7
— Victor Tsaran (@vick08) August 26, 2013
"Just so u know I don't do anything when u blink at me, Adhi" is what I got to "Ok Glass" from Siri "@appleinsider: http://t.co/hlDNYe95zN"
— adhi (@adhikun) August 26, 2013