WWDC 2018
WWDC 2018 was all about Software. Introducing iOS 12, Apple announced improved performance for older devices, with 40 to 70% faster speeds. Continuing its commitment to AR or augmented reality, USDZ or Universal Scene Description is being offered as an open file format to make it easier for developers to save and share AR projects. This technology inspired Apple's new Measure app which enables you to use your iOS device to measure objects in your physical surroundings. Combining USDZ with the third iteration of ARKit, developers are able to create AR experiences that change the way iOS users see the world.
The Photos app in iOS 12 introduces a “For You” section, along with “Effects” and “Sharing” suggestions to expedite the decision process. And Building off the popular Workflow app, Apple is introduces Shortcuts which works in tandem with Siri to produce automated actions in succession such as sending messages, changing your thermostat, and getting directions from the Maps app.
iOS 12 also comes with an improved Stocks app which now comes integrated with curated finance News in the same style as the News App. Likewise, Voice Memos has been redesigned, and added to the iPad for the for first time. Improvements were also added to Notifications for iOS which can now be grouped into categories and removed as a complete set. And, a new app called Screen Time allows you to track and manage the time you spend on your phone by category or by individual app.
Last year, the Messages app received a huge bump, and this year is no exception. Apple is also introduces animoji with tongue detection, and a more personalized feature called Memoji with characters that look, well, like you. Communication features were also added to FaceTime which now includes group conversations with up to as many as 32 people.
Last year, the Messages app received a huge bump, and this year is no exception. Apple is also introduces animoji with tongue detection, and a more personalized feature called Memoji with characters that look, well, like you. Communication features were also added to FaceTime which now includes group conversations with up to as many as 32 people.
The Watch OS also received some great new features, including “Competitions”, and "Cadence" which connects your Apple Watch to activity you’ve already started. Walkie Talkie extends opportunity for voice communication, integrating as well the new Siri Shortcuts.
The Apple TV will now enable you to view sports and news in real time and Charter Spectrum is now fully integrated with Apple TV.
The Apple TV will now enable you to view sports and news in real time and Charter Spectrum is now fully integrated with Apple TV.
The Mac OS also has some excited features, starting with a new operating system called Mohave. Mohave introduces some very nice features, including dark mode for the Finder, a new gallery view, The ability to annotate file in quick look, as well as, screen captures, both which are features that are currently available in iOS. The continuity between Mac OS and IOS is continued with the introduction of the Memos app for the Mac and, yes, Apple News and Stocks are also coming to the Mac as well.
And lastly, the welcoming addition to the Mac is a redesigned Mac App Store, which will make browsing for apps identical to the iOS app store which first debuted for iOS 11. All four OS’s offer exciting Software developments, leaving us on pins and needles in anticipation for the next hardware announcements.