Title: Apple iOS 17: Exciting Updates Coming at WWDC 2023
Apple’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) is just around the corner, and while there’s a lot of buzz around the rumored mixed reality headset announcement, Apple fans are also eagerly awaiting the unveiling of iOS 17. This year’s event promises to bring some of the most requested features from users. Let’s take a closer look at what we can expect from iOS 17.
Health and wellness continue to be a key focus for Apple, and iOS 17 is rumored to introduce several new features in this area. According to reports, Apple is working on a journaling app that will allow users to log their thoughts and activities. The app will analyze this data to provide insights into daily habits, such as time spent at home versus elsewhere. Additionally, iOS 17 may include a mood-tracker and a tool for managing vision conditions like nearsightedness. These updates could pave the way for a coaching app for Apple Watch, which is rumored to be announced later in the year.
In terms of screen functionality, Apple is reportedly working on an iPhone lock screen interface that resembles a smart home display. When the phone is positioned horizontally, the interface will show useful information such as calendar appointments, weather updates, and notifications. This builds upon the lock screen widgets introduced in last year’s iOS 16. Additionally, there are rumors of a potential Control Center revamp, although this information has not been confirmed by reliable sources.
Apple Wallet is also expected to receive updates in iOS 17. While details are scarce, Apple’s recent push to offer financial services suggests that we may see improvements to the Wallet app at WWDC. Apple Pay Later, which allows users to pay for products in installments, was launched earlier this year in the U.S., and an upcoming feature called Tap to Pay will enable contactless transactions similar to Square. These updates indicate Apple’s commitment to enhancing the user experience when it comes to managing finances.
Undoubtedly, the highlight of this year’s WWDC is expected to be Apple’s rumored augmented reality (AR) headset, referred to as Reality Pro. The hardware will be paired with a bespoke operating system named xrOS, which will feature a familiar interface but offer unique methods of interaction, potentially combining eye movements with hand gestures. The headset can be used as a standalone device, but it can also be connected to other Apple devices for specific tasks. If the unveiling of Reality Pro does happen, it is likely that iOS 17 will come with integration features for xrOS.
Back in May, Apple previewed new accessibility tools and features, promising their availability later this year. These include Assistive Access, which simplifies the use of essential apps for individuals with cognitive disabilities; Live Speech, which provides text-to-audio during live calls; and Detection Mode, which magnifies and reads aloud text and labels on objects for people with visual impairments. We may hear more about these tools’ availability during WWDC, as the event often includes news about software updates.
Another potential change with iOS 17 relates to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act. Apple is required to enable third-party app downloads outside of the App Store by 2024, a practice known as sideloading. According to a report by reliable Apple analyst Mark Gurman, Apple is planning to introduce this feature in iOS 17. This move would allow developers to sidestep the 30% commission fee typically charged by Apple. It’s a significant development that would open up new possibilities for app distribution and could lead to more diverse app options for users.
While not directly related to iOS 17, there are predictions that WWDC may offer updates to Apple CarPlay, including enhancements to Apple Music with on-screen lyrics. Additionally, improvements to SharePlay and AirPlay functionality are expected, making it easier to share and stream content across devices.
As we await the start of WWDC 2023, it’s clear that iOS 17 has many exciting features in store. From health and wellness enhancements to improvements in screen functionality, Apple fans have much to look forward to. And with the anticipated announcement of the Reality Pro headset, iOS 17 could usher in a new era of augmented reality experiences. Stay tuned for more updates during WWDC 2023, where Apple is sure to captivate audiences once again with its innovative announcements.
[Byline: Cecily Mauran]
