Apple WWDC 2024: What to Expect

Apple WWDC 2024: What to Expect from iOS 18, AI Enhancements, and More

The countdown to Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (Apple WWDC 2024) has begun. This annual event is a highlight for developers and tech enthusiasts alike, offering a first look at the new features and updates coming to Apple’s software ecosystem. As we approach the keynote, speculation is rife about what Apple has in store, particularly regarding iOS 18, generative AI, and other significant updates. Here’s a comprehensive look at what to expect from WWDC 2024.

When and How to Watch WWDC 2024

WWDC 2024 will kick off on June 10 and run through June 14. The focal point of the event is Apple’s keynote presentation, scheduled for 1 PM ET on June 10. During this keynote, Apple typically unveils key features for its major operating systems, including iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and the newly introduced visionOS.

For those eager to watch the keynote, Apple will stream the event on its website, the Apple Developer app, the Apple TV app, and its YouTube channel. This makes it easy for anyone to tune in and catch the latest announcements live.

AI

While Apple has traditionally been cautious with its use of the term “AI,” the landscape is changing rapidly. Generative AI has become a focal point in the tech industry, and Apple appears ready to dive deeper into this space. Although Apple might not have a proprietary AI chatbot ready for release, reports suggest a collaboration with OpenAI to integrate ChatGPT into iOS 18. Additionally, Apple may be negotiating with Google to bring Gemini AI to iPhones, though this might happen later.

Siri is expected to receive significant upgrades, utilizing Apple’s own large language models to enhance its capabilities. These improvements will allow Siri to perform more specific functions within apps, such as opening documents and sending emails. However, these enhancements are likely to roll out in early 2025.

Apple’s approach to generative AI is practical, aiming to assist users in everyday tasks. Expected features include suggested email and message replies, text summaries, voice memo transcriptions, and enhanced photo editing tools. Apple will likely perform as much AI processing on-device as possible to maintain user privacy, a core principle for the company.

iOS 18 and iPadOS 18

As usual, iOS and iPadOS will receive a slew of updates. One of the most anticipated changes is the introduction of Rich Communications Service (RCS) to Messages. RCS offers advanced messaging features like end-to-end encryption, high-resolution media sharing, and Wi-Fi messaging, significantly improving communication between iOS and Android devices.

Other rumored updates for iOS 18 include custom emoji generation based on text inputs, more flexible home screen customization options, and new auto-generated playlist features in Apple Music. Apple Maps may also gain custom routes and topographic maps, while Notes could see the addition of a voice recording tool with transcription capabilities.

macOS 15

macOS 15 is expected to mirror many of the updates coming to iOS, such as enhancements to Apple Music and Notes. Rumors suggest a reorganization of the System Settings app, prioritizing more frequently used categories. Siri’s menu bar icon may receive a new, streamlined design, and there could be new accessibility features, including custom spoken phrases to trigger actions.

The Calculator app is set for a significant overhaul, integrating features like Notes app collaboration, improved unit conversions, and a sidebar for recent activity. This update will also bring the Calculator app to iPadOS.

Hardware

While WWDC is primarily a software-focused event, Apple has occasionally used it to unveil new hardware. Last year, the Vision Pro headset made its debut, along with the 15-inch MacBook Air and M2 Ultra-powered Mac Pro and Mac Studio. This year, however, hardware announcements are expected to be minimal.

Apple recently updated its iPad lineup and refreshed the MacBook Pro and iMac in October, with MacBook Air updates in March. Thus, significant new hardware is unlikely. However, there’s a possibility that Apple could introduce new peripherals or update existing products, like an AirPods Max with a USB-C charging port.

One anticipated hardware update is the expansion of Vision Pro availability beyond the US. The headset could soon launch in additional countries, including Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, and the UK.

WatchOS, tvOS, and Other Platforms

Updates to watchOS and tvOS are expected, although details remain sparse. Apple Watch users can anticipate some notable changes, though they may be less dramatic compared to last year’s major overhaul. tvOS updates are usually less prominent but will likely be announced during the Platforms State of the Union event.

Also See:

Siri AI Integration for Enhanced Voice Control

Google AI Overview Restrictions After Misleading Responses

PwC Partners with OpenAI

ASUS Set to Launch Next-Gen AI PCs

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