Cultural reflections and gender dynamics: analyzing preferences for Siri’s female voice in Jordan

This study examined Jordanians’ preferences for Siri's female voice, focusing on cultural norms, gender roles, and sociolinguistic factors. Interviews with 30 participants revealed socioeconomic, gendered, and generational differences in views about Siri's voice. Older participants typically associated female voices with traditional gender roles, while younger Jordanians and women felt uncomfortable with this association. Individuals from higher socioeconomic and educational backgrounds viewed Siri's female voice as reinforcing stereotypes, while those from lower socioeconomic groups preferred the voice for its pleasantness. The study advocates for designs that challenge entrenched gender norms in technology to provide more diverse voice options, highlighting the importance of considering gender representation in voice technology design. Future research should explore ways to reduce gender stereotyping in voice technologies to ensure inclusivity and diversity, facilitating ongoing discussions about gender representation in technology and its impact in Jordanian society.