Apple's upcoming Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2024 promises exciting AI features and significant updates to core functionalities across iOS and macOS. While AI will play an important role, Apple is also focusing on revamping the Settings apps, Control Center, Messages, Mail, and more.
Major Overhaul of Settings and Control Center
In his Power On Newsletter for Bloomberg, Mark Gurman reports that Apple plans to introduce a "cleaner" and more organized Settings app for iOS and macOS. The new UI aims to improve search functionality and streamline user experience. macOS users can expect a similar overhaul in the System Settings app.
The Control Center, known for its quick settings access in iOS, will also receive significant updates. This includes a new music widget and enhanced controls for smart home appliances. While specifics are yet to be detailed, these improvements could consist of customizable options for which devices appear in the Home widget, offering users more control over their smart home environment.
Enhanced Messaging and Mail Features
Apple is set to introduce new features to the Messages app, including the ability to animate individual words within text messages. This aligns with recent reports from MacRumors. Additionally, the Tapback feature will receive new reaction icons, adding more expressive options for users.
The Mail app is also slated for several improvements, although specifics remain unclear. These updates are expected to enhance the user experience and provide more robust functionality.
VisionOS 2.0 and First-Party App Enhancements
Gurman also mentions the anticipated announcement of visionOS 2.0, which will bring native versions of Apple’s first-party apps. Currently, visionOS only supports iPad versions of apps like Home, Calendar, Podcasts, and Pages. The update aims to optimize these applications for a more seamless user experience.
AI-Powered Siri and Other Innovations
Apple's AI advancements will be the highlight of WWDC 2024. One significant feature is an AI-powered Siri that can perform tasks within apps without any setup from users or developers. This could include Siri offering meeting summaries, cropping photos, or moving notes between folders based on real-time analysis of user activities. This functionality is reminiscent of Rabbit’s “Large Action Model” with elements of Microsoft’s Clippy.
Additional AI features expected to roll out with iOS 18 this fall include real-time voice transcription for Voice Memos and Notes apps and the introduction of custom AI-created emojis.
What to Expect at WWDC 2024
WWDC 2024 is set for June 10th, when Apple will officially unveil these updates. The blend of AI innovations and significant improvements to core functionalities like Settings, Control Center, Messages, and Mail underscores Apple’s commitment to enhancing user experience across its ecosystem.
Stay tuned for detailed coverage of WWDC 2024, where Apple will showcase its latest advancements in AI, iOS, and macOS. These innovations promise to elevate the overall user experience to new heights.