Anticipating Apple's Announcements at WWDC 2024
Get ready because Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) for 2024 is just around the corner! In a short period of time, we'll finally have a glimpse of significant software updates from Cupertino, featuring iOS 18, macOS 15, and many AI-related advancements. It's a momentous year for Apple fans and devotees alike.
WWDC 2024 Dates
The highly anticipated WWDC 2024 is set to occur from June 10 to June 14. During this time, Apple will be unveiling updates for iOS 18, macOS 15, watchOS 11, and tvOS and visionOS versions.
Unbeknownst to many, WWDC isn't just an annual software release showcase. It's much more than that. WWDC 2024 is actually a week-long event where software developers and tech enthusiasts can come together, share insights, and learn new skills. The event's highlight - the transformation of software - is scheduled for June 10, turning WWDC's considerable length into a week-long affair.
What to Expect from WWDC 2024
The star of the show this year? Artificial Intelligence (AI). It's reported that Apple has some groundbreaking AI developments up its sleeves, and I've been eager to uncover the latest buzz and leaks.
Apple has been rumored to be incorporating AI into several iOS, iPadOS, and macOS apps and features - including Siri, Apple's voice assistance program. Siri is presumed to receive an extensive AI upgrade, allowing users to interact with app functions using voice commands. While that's not new, users might get AI-specific voice commands like "Siri, delete this email" or "Siri, summarize this article."
Safari could also acquire an AI-powered article summarizer as well. It would make summarizing long-form online content as easy as clicking a button. Besides that, expect numerous apps to use AI to suggest replies and let AI choose the best response for messages, not to mention turning your typing into emojis through AI-generated visuals. Notification Center is slated to receive AI-driven widgets for music, home control, and shortcut triggers.
Apple's AI platform could potentially involve an open-source AI from OpenAI for enhanced functionality, but the implications for user data remain unclear. Apple is said to be exploring more secure cloud-based AI services through the Secure Enclave in Mac server farms, addressing privacy concerns.
Apple hasn't confirmed these plans just yet, but Mark Gurman at Bloomberg hints at an upcoming project called "Apple Intelligence." It's supposed to be a set of AI-based features that will be beta-tested and further developed with user feedback. These features might require iOS 18 or macOS to work effectively, as well as new Apple devices with M1 chips and newer.
Not all updates, however, will center on AI. Gurman also mentioned that, in iOS 18, users might be able to place app icons anywhere on their screen - not just in predetermined spots - and directly customize app icons in the settings menu. He also mentions that Control Center may gain new widgets for music and home control, as well as a large number of Shortcuts. Messages could gain new features like activating effect triggers through single words, colorful Tapback icons, and the option to use emojis instead of typical icons. iOS 18 will probably also carry the nerve-wracking development of a concrete timeline for RCS upgrade on iPhones.
For macOS, Apple is expected to release a standalone Passwords app that'll enhance the capabilities of its current iCloud Keychain. This will provide another viable option for password managers across their ecosystem. A calculator app may also be becoming available for the iPad, which bears no resemblance to Apple's already-present built-in calculator.
Health app users might notice a more sophisticated blood pressure management system, alongside previously mentioned hearing tests for AirPods. Apple's ecosystem will also receive new exclusive wallpaper options, which Gurman believes will reflect nostalgia-laden vintage icons and phrases.
We know less about watchOS 11 but can expect a revamped Siri interface and significant changes to various watchOS apps. Focus on Vision Pro, Apple's foray into mixed reality. While it generated hype initially, its following news has dissipated. Rumors suggest visionOS 2's features will be more modest, like new environments, the Passwords app, and a few ported iPad apps.
Once again, you can catch the live stream from Apple's website and their YouTube channel for the event happening on Monday. The show will kick off at 10 AM PT (1 PM ET).
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When is WWDC 2024? The highly anticipated event will take place from June 10 to June 14. The tech-focused conference is not only a platform for Apple to unveil significant software updates but also a week-long event for developers and tech enthusiasts to share insights and learn new skills.
At WWDC 2024, one of the main focal points will be the advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI). Apple is rumored to be incorporating AI into several iOS, iPadOS, and macOS apps and features, including an extensive AI upgrade for Siri, allowing users to interact with app functions using voice commands.
