WWDC24: Everything we know so far
The WWDC24 set to be held from June 10-14 is only going to focus on software announcements and updates.
Apple's annual Worldwide Developer Conference WWDC24 is here again.
This year, it will be a special online event for select developers, students, and media members scheduled to kickstart on June 10-14 at the Apple Park campus in Cupertino, California.
How to watch the Apple WWDC24 Event
Last year, we witnessed amazing hardware releases from Apple such as the Apple Vision Pro, Macbook Air, M2 Ultra, and much more. However, for this year's event, Apple may likely focus more on software announcements and updates.
Just to get things started, we have taken the time to compile a list of software updates we believe will be unveiled at the WWDC24 event. Here they are below:
iOS 18
The iOS 18 has been the biggest buzz so far heading into the WWDC24. It has been speculated that it would feature several AI-powered enhancements that promise to transform the iOS user experience.
For one, we expect to have custom emoji generation and home screen customization which would allow users to create unique emojis on the fly, change app icon colors, and arrange them more freely.
We also expect the iOS 18 to include updates for several of the built-in apps, including Notes, Mail, Photos, and Fitness.
AI Integration
Apple right from time has always sought to establish some form of competition with other tech giants in the AI race. Take, for example, In January this year, Samsung introduced Galaxy AI’s on-device and cloud-based generative AI capabilities into the Galaxy S24 smartphone lineup.
Google last year launched Gemini AI to compete with OpenAI's ChatGPT and Microsoft itself has been making waves in the AI space thanks to its 49% stake in OpenAI and its recently held Microsoft Build 2024 event.
In order not to be left out, Apple wants to have a piece of the pie which is why it is making AI a big part of the WWDC24 event. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, here are some of the ways Apple is going to be using AI:
- Photo retouching, such as the removal of unwanted objects
- Voice memo transcriptions
- Suggested replies to emails and messages
- Auto-generated custom emojis based on the content of a user's messages
- Smart recap for missed notifications and messages
- Improved Safari web search and faster searches in Spotlight
- Auto-generated Apple Music playlists based on input from the user, such as a mood
- AI-assisted writing in Pages
- AI-assisted slide deck creation in Keynote
- AI code writing in Xcode for developers
- Siri improvements that integrate large-language models (LLMs), such as natural conversation capabilities and improved user personalization
macOS 15
The macOS 15 has been speculated that it would have similar features as the iOS 18 which will both be unveiled at the WWDC24. From what we know, the beta version will be unveiled on June 10, with the public version set to be launched in either September or October this year.
Here are some of the AI-powered features that have been rumored to be added to the macOS 15 operating system:
- AI-generated Apple Music playlists
- AI-assisted writing in Pages
- AI-assisted slide deck creation in Keynote
- AI code writing features in Xcode
- Siri improvements and deeper integration with Shortcuts
- Adaptive voice shortcut
- Scenes
- Maps
How to watch the Apple WWDC24 Event
HomePod Software 18
The HomePod software is most likely going to be receiving huge updates alongside the software for the HomePod Mini. Back in 2022, Apple introduced the HomePod Software Version 16 which didn't have many features even though it was later upgraded to version 16.3 with temperature and humidity sensing features.
This time around, rumor has it that Apple has big plans for the HomePod and we might likely get to see a major software update from version 17 to version 18 alongside other impressive changes that we can't wait to find out.
watchOS 11
The Apple Watch might likely get a new operating system at the WWDC24 event. Also, we might get to see more health and fitness features and maybe an AI integration here as well.
visionOS 2
The Apple Vision Pro might feature new software updates and AI upgrades as well which could improve the virtual reality experience for users. Also, Apple may include new apps, and third-party software so that users can have more functionality with the device.
tvOS 18
The Apple TV could also see possible software updates coming its way. Just as the Apple TV got a Facetime support feature last year, Apple may as well decide to release a new feature or update along this line.
However, don't expect a new Apple TV to be unveiled at the WWDC24 as the possibility of that happening is highly unlikely.
How to watch the Apple WWDC24 Event