Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), one of Apple’s most anticipated annual events, is scheduled for June 10, 2024. The excitement is palpable as Apple is expected to make significant strides in AI technology. While the Cupertino tech giant has kept details under wraps, there are hints of major advancements, particularly the integration of Generative AI into iOS. Here’s a detailed look at what to expect from WWDC 2024, including iOS 18, macOS 15, and visionOS 2.
Table of Contents
Apple WWDC 2024: iOS 18 with AI Galore
The highlight of WWDC 2024 will undoubtedly be the AI features embedded in iOS 18. Apple is set to rival its competitors in the AI space, and according to Mark Gurman, iOS 18 will be the most significant software update ever, thanks to AI.
Custom Emojis with Generative AI
One of the exciting features is the ability to create custom emojis using generative AI. This feature will allow users to generate unique emojis tailored to their preferences, adding a personal touch to messaging.
Enhanced Spotlight Searches
Spotlight searches are expected to become faster and more intuitive. AI will be crucial in delivering more accurate and relevant search results, making finding what you need on your device easier.
Smart Recaps for Notifications
iOS 18 will introduce Smart Recaps for missed notifications. This feature will provide concise summaries of notifications, ensuring that users stay informed without feeling overwhelmed.
Improved Safari Search
Safari will receive significant upgrades, including improved search capabilities powered by AI. It will enhance the browsing experience by providing more relevant search results and suggestions.
AI in Photos Retouching
The Photos app will benefit from AI enhancements, offering advanced retouching options. Thanks to AI-driven tools, users will be able to enhance their photos with ease.
Auto-generated Playlists in Apple Music
Apple Music will introduce auto-generated playlists curated by AI based on users’ listening habits. This feature will ensure that users always have fresh and personalized playlists at their fingertips.
AI-Powered Reply Suggestions
Emails and text messages will see improved AI-powered reply suggestions, making communication more efficient and seamless.
Advanced Siri Personalization
Thanks to AI advancements, Siri will become more natural and personalized. Users can expect more intuitive interactions and enhanced voice recognition capabilities.
Home Screen Customizations
iOS 18 will offer a more customizable Home Screen experience. Users will have greater control over app icon arrangements and colors, allowing for a more personalized look and feel.
RCS Messaging Support
Starting with iOS 18, Apple will support the RCS messaging standard. It will improve communication between iPhone and Android users, offering features like better group chats, read receipts, and high-resolution media sharing.
New Accessibility Features
A slew of new accessibility features will be introduced, including Eye Tracking, Music Haptics, Vocal Shortcuts, and Vehicle Motion Cues, making iOS more inclusive.
Upgraded Built-in Apps
Several built-in apps will receive major updates. Safari will have an Intelligent Search option and a Web Eraser tool. Apple Maps will get Topographic Maps and custom route-saving options. The Calendar app will integrate better with Reminders. The Photos app will have AI-driven editing features, and Apple Music will see smarter music transitions.
iPadOS 18
The latest update for iPads, iPadOS 18, will incorporate most of iOS 18’s new features and be optimized for a larger display.
Inclusion of iOS 18 Features
iPadOS 18 will include AI-driven features such as enhanced Spotlight searches, custom emojis, and improved Safari search.
Unique Additions for iPad
One of the major additions will be a built-in Calculator app for the iPad, finally filling a long-standing gap in the iPad’s app lineup. Other features tailored for the iPad include improved multitasking and new accessibility options.
macOS 15
At Apple WWDC 2024, Apple will unveil macOS 15, bringing new features and improvements to Mac users.
New Calculator App
macOS 15 will feature a revamped Calculator app integrated with the Notes app. It will include a resizable window, a history tape feature, and updated unit conversion functions.
Enhanced Accessibility Features
New accessibility features will include Adaptive Voice Shortcuts, a Live Speech enhancement, and extended app support for custom font sizes. These features aim to make macOS more user-friendly for individuals with disabilities.
Generative AI in macOS 15
Generative AI will play a significant role in macOS 15, enhancing various built-in apps and system functions.
watchOS 11
Apple will also introduce watchOS 11 for its Apple Watch lineup, bringing new features and improvements.
Health and Fitness Enhancements
WatchOS 11 will focus on health and fitness, introduce new workout modes, improve sleep tracking, and more.
New Watch Faces
New watch faces will be introduced, providing users with more customization options.
tvOS 18
Apple WWDC 2024 will showcase tvOS 18, the latest update for the Apple TV platform.
Expected Updates
While specifics are unavailable, tvOS 18 is expected to enhance the user interface and introduce new features to improve the viewing experience.
Apple Vision 2
With the Vision Pro now available, visionOS 2 is anticipated at Apple WWDC 2024.
Accessibility Features
The new update will introduce system-wide Live Captions, Smart Invert, Reduce Transparency, and Dim Flashing Lights, enhancing accessibility for Vision Pro users.
HomePod Software Version 18
HomePod and HomePod mini will receive software updates with Version 18.
Expected Improvements
While detailed features are not yet disclosed, significant improvements are expected, enhancing the functionality and user experience of HomePod devices.
Other Updates at Apple WWDC 2024
Apple is expected to update its developer-focused apps and introduce new features for CarPlay.
Developer-Centered Apps
Updates to Xcode, Swift, and TestFlight will provide developers with better tools and resources.
CarPlay Enhancements
New features in CarPlay will include Voice Control, Sound Recognition for alerts, and Color Filters for better accessibility.
Will There Be Hardware Announcements at Apple WWDC 2024?
Generally, Apple WWDC 2024 is a software-centric event, but Apple has previously surprised us with hardware announcements.
Hardware Speculations
Currently, there are no strong rumors about new hardware announcements. Mark Gurman suggests that no hardware might be unveiled at WWDC 2024. Still, Apple is known for its surprises, so anything is possible.
What Time Does WWDC 2024 Start?
The Apple WWDC 2024 keynote event will begin at 10 AM Pacific Time on Monday, June 10. Here are the times for various locations:
- United States: 10 AM (PDT), 1 PM (EDT)
- Canada: 2 PM (ADT)
- United Kingdom: 6 PM (BST)
- Europe: 7 PM (CEST)
- India: 10:30 PM (IST)
- China and Singapore: June 11 at 1 AM
- Japan: June 11 at 2 AM (JST)
- Australia: June 11 at 1 AM (AWST), 2:30 AM (ACST), 3 AM (AEST)
- New Zealand: June 11, 5 AM (NZST)
Conclusion
Apple WWDC 2024 is poised to be an exciting event, with major updates across all Apple platforms. From the AI-driven iOS 18 to the innovative macOS 15 and the accessibility enhancements in visionOS 2, there’s a lot to look forward to. While hardware announcements are unlikely, Apple’s software innovations promise to deliver a thrilling experience for users and developers alike. Stay tuned for more updates and surprises from Apple WWDC 2024!
