AI MOBILE TECH

Everything Announced at WWDC 2024

10 June, 2024

It’s that exciting time of year again – Apple’s Worldwide Developer Conference, or WWDC. This event is where Apple unveils some of its most significant updates and innovations, particularly around software.

WWDC 2024 stands out as one of the most momentous events in recent years. Packed with updates for iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and more, here’s a roundup of everything Apple announced.

Vision Pro and visionOS 2

Apple introduced visionOS 2 for Vision Pro, bringing enhancements to Photos. Using machine learning, it converts old photos into spatial photos, adding depth and dimension. VisionOS 2 also supports SharePlay and introduces new ways to control Vision Pro.

With visionOS 2, you can transform your photo library into immersive experiences. Advanced machine learning creates spatial photos from 2D images, making your memories feel more vivid and real on Vision Pro.

Spatial videos will also be editable in Final Cut Pro and the new Vimeo app. Additionally, developers can look forward to new frameworks and APIs.

iOS 18

The iOS 18 update brings significant improvements:

  • Home Screen Customization: Frame app icons anywhere on the display and customize dark mode settings.
  • Control Center Overhaul: Access multiple pages and a new Controls Gallery for easier customization.
  • Privacy Enhancements: Lock apps using Face ID, Passcode, or Touch ID with the new “Lock an App” feature.
  • Enhanced Messages: Use any emoji or sticker for Tapbacks, schedule messages, and apply text effects like underline and bold. Messages via satellite are now end-to-end encrypted.
  • Mail Categories: Sort emails into categories, creating organized digests.
  • Updated Maps and Wallet: Topographic maps, Tap to Cash, enhanced event tickets, and Journal improvements.
  • Game Mode and Photos: Improved organization and the “biggest redesign ever” for the Photos app.

Audio & Home

Enhancements for audio and home features include:

  • AirPods: Voice isolation for better call quality and the ability to communicate with Siri through gestures.
  • Apple TV+: New features like recognizing who’s on screen and identifying music playing.
  • tvOS 18: Supports 21:9 format for projectors and introduces a new portrait gallery for screensavers.

watchOS 11

watchOS 11 offers new functionalities for Apple Watch:

  • Training Load: Monitor the intensity of your workouts and see how they affect your body.
  • Vitals App: Displays critical health metrics at a glance.
  • Pregnancy Enhancements: Track gestational age and monitor pregnancy metrics.
  • Improved Interactions: Easier task performance without your phone.
  • Smart Stack: Widgets change automatically based on time and location.
  • Photos Watch Face: Customize with machine learning to find the best photos.

iPadOS 18

iPadOS 18 incorporates features from iOS 18 along with additional enhancements:

  • Floating Tab Bar: Customizable for better document browsing.
  • SharePlay Drawing Capabilities: Show and control someone’s iPad from yours.
  • Freeform Scenes and Official Calculator: Includes Math Notes when paired with Apple Pencil.
  • Smart Scripts in Notes: Improved handwriting clarity.

macOS 15 Sequoia

macOS 15 integrates features from iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 with new updates:

  • Continuity Enhancements: iPhone Mirroring and interactive notifications on Mac.
  • Window Organization: Suggested layouts for maximizing screen usage.
  • Video Conferencing: Presenter preview and background replacements.
  • Standalone Keychain App: A dedicated app for password management.
  • Safari Updates: Highlights and improved video viewing.

AI Innovations

Apple introduced “Apple Intelligence,” a suite of AI features designed to be robust, intuitive, and private:

  • Deep Integration: AI is built into hardware and software, ensuring privacy and security.
  • Natural Language Processing: Advanced writing tools and image creation features.
  • Smart Actions and Personal Context: AI-based actions to streamline tasks.
  • Enhanced Siri: Smarter and more relevant interactions.
  • AI-Driven Notifications: Summaries and prioritized alerts.
  • New Ways to Express Yourself: Genmoji and image playground features.
  • Integration with ChatGPT: Enhances user experience with AI capabilities.

These announcements mark just the beginning of Apple’s plans for integrating AI across its products. Developers can expect new betas to be released later today.