Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2024 is fast approaching, and the tech world is buzzing with anticipation. Scheduled from June 10 to June 14, this annual event is where Apple typically unveils its latest software updates and, occasionally, new hardware. This year, a significant focus is expected to be on artificial intelligence (AI), as Apple aims to make its mark in this rapidly evolving field.
Major software updates expected at WWDC 2024
As usual, Apple will reveal updates to its major operating systems, including iOS 18, iPadOS 18, macOS 15, watchOS, and possibly visionOS. These updates are critical as they set the stage for developers to prepare their apps for a broader rollout in the fall.
Discover the exciting updates coming to Apple's iMessage app with iOS 18. Explore new text effects and cross-platform compatibility and AI.
iOS 18 and iPadOS 18
One of the most anticipated announcements is iOS 18, which is expected to bring several new features and improvements. A notable addition is the introduction of Rich Communications Service (RCS) to Messages, enhancing messaging security and media sharing capabilities. Apple had long resisted adopting RCS, but it appears ready to comply with stricter EU regulations.
Other rumored features for iOS 18 include custom emoji generation based on text messages, customizable app icon colors, and a more flexible home screen layout. Apple Music might gain an auto-generated playlist feature, and Apple Maps could introduce custom routes and topographic maps. The Notes app is expected to get a voice-recording tool, potentially integrated with a new transcription function.
macOS 15
For macOS 15, many of the updates expected in iOS 18 will likely be mirrored. This includes changes to Apple Music, Notes, and productivity apps. Additionally, Apple might reorganize the System Settings app, prioritizing categories based on importance. Siri’s menu bar icon may get a redesign, and new accessibility features could be introduced.
Apple’s leap into generative AI
In line with the industry trend, Apple is expected to delve deeper into generative AI at WWDC 2024. While Apple has been relatively quiet about its AI advancements, the company is reportedly working on integrating AI capabilities into its products.
Siri and AI integration
Siri is set to receive a significant upgrade across compatible devices using Apple’s large language models. This update, expected to roll out in early 2025, will allow Siri to perform more specific functions within apps, such as opening documents and sending emails. Additionally, generative AI features like suggested email and message replies, text summaries, voice memo transcriptions, and enhanced photo touchup tools are anticipated in core apps.
Apple is also believed to be negotiating with OpenAI to integrate ChatGPT into iOS 18. While Apple is still working on its AI chatbot, the integration with ChatGPT could be a temporary measure to stay competitive. There are also ongoing discussions with Google to possibly offer the Gemini AI assistant on iPhones in the future.
Privacy and on-device processing
A key aspect of Apple’s approach to AI is maintaining user privacy. Apple plans to handle as much AI processing on-device as possible, with the remainder being processed in data centers. This approach raises questions about data security, and Apple will need to assure users that their information remains secure during this process.
Hardware expectations at WWDC 2024
While WWDC is primarily a software event, Apple has occasionally used it to announce new hardware. However, major hardware announcements are not expected this year. The recent updates to the iPad lineup, MacBook Pro, and iMac suggest that new laptop announcements are unlikely.
Apple Vision Pro
One area where we might see hardware updates is the Apple Vision Pro. Currently available only in the US, Apple is expected to announce the next phase of its rollout, potentially expanding to countries like Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, and the UK. However, details about visionOS 2 remain sparse, so any updates to this mixed reality operating system are still uncertain.
How to watch WWDC 2024
Apple will stream the WWDC 2024 keynote online, making it accessible via apple.com, the Apple Developer app, the Apple TV app, and Apple’s YouTube channel. The keynote is scheduled for 1 PM ET on June 10, where Apple will unveil the key features of its latest operating systems and possibly more.
In conclusion, WWDC 2024 promises to be an exciting event with significant announcements expected around Apple’s AI initiatives and software updates. As Apple continues to innovate, its focus on integrating AI while maintaining user privacy will be closely watched by the tech community and users alike.
