The annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) is a major event for tech enthusiasts and Apple fans. This year’s WWDC will start on June 10th at 1 pm ET / 10 am PT. The event will focus on revamping Apple’s operating systems across its entire device ecosystem, making it a software-centric extravaganza.

iOS 18 / iPadOS 18: the age of Apple Intelligence

The spotlight at WWDC is expected to shine brightest on iOS 18 and iPadOS 18. These updates mark a significant shift for Apple, ushering in an era of artificial intelligence (AI) integration under the banner of “Apple Intelligence.” This AI push promises to be the biggest software refresh for iOS in years, with a focus on user privacy and offering features that users can opt-in to.

A cornerstone of this update is a revamped Siri. Siri is rumored to undergo a significant overhaul, becoming more conversational and adept at handling complex tasks. Imagine Siri seamlessly controlling features within apps, summarizing information on the fly, or even composing personalized responses to emails. However, reports suggest that the full potential of the new Siri might not be available until a later version of iOS 18.

Complementing the AI focus, Spotlight search is also expected to get a boost. We can anticipate more intelligent results, improved sorting capabilities, and a more streamlined search experience.

Chatbots and messaging

Apple seems to be embracing the chatbot revolution, with rumors suggesting the integration of OpenAI‘s ChatGPT technology into iOS 18. This would provide users with an optional chatbot experience, potentially offering a more interactive way to engage with their devices.

The Messages app is also poised for an upgrade. AI-powered features like suggested replies, message summarization, and even auto-generated emojis based on message content are all on the table. Additionally, iMessage might adopt the Rich Communication Services (RCS) standard, paving the way for a smoother messaging experience with Android users.

A touch of intelligence across the board: built-in app upgrades

Apple’s suite of built-in apps is also set to receive an AI makeover. Here’s a closer look at some of the anticipated changes:

• Safari: Intelligent Search for webpage summaries, a revamped quick access menu, and a potential “Web Eraser” tool for managing unwanted website elements.
• Mail: Smart Replies for emails, improved search capabilities, summaries of long threads, and a categorized inbox for better organization.
• Maps: The ability to create custom routes and the possible inclusion of topographic maps, a feature introduced in watchOS 10.
• Photos: An AI-powered tool for removing unwanted objects from images, making those photo edits a breeze.
• Apple Music: Auto-generated playlists curated by AI and the ability to adjust song transitions for a seamless listening experience.
• Notes: Voice memo recording with transcripts, improved support for mathematical notation, and AI-generated summaries of key points in notes and recordings.
• Health: Enhanced blood pressure data management in anticipation of Apple Watch hypertension detection capabilities, along with more tailored health data like pregnancy-specific cycle tracking. Additionally, a new hearing test integrated with AirPods might be in the works.

These are just a few examples, and we can expect a plethora of other AI-powered features to be sprinkled throughout various apps.

Personalization and functionality: reimagining the Home Screen and Control Center

iOS 18 might also bring a more customizable Home Screen. Imagine arranging app icons in new ways, utilizing blank spaces for a more organized layout, and even changing icon colors to suit your taste. The Control Center could also get a customizable makeover, allowing users to rearrange controls for a more personalized experience.

A dedicated “Passwords” app

Managing logins, passwords, and Passkeys is about to get easier. iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS 15 are rumored to introduce a dedicated Passwords app. This app will consolidate password management features currently scattered across Settings, offering a centralized hub for all your login needs.

Accessibility updates

Apple has already announced several noteworthy accessibility features coming to iOS 18. These include Vehicle Motion Cues to combat motion sickness while using iPhones in moving vehicles, Eye Tracking for hands-free navigation using facial recognition, and Music Haptics that create vibrations corresponding to music, offering a richer audio experience.

Hearing aid potential for AirPods Pro

The AirPods Pro might gain a hearing aid mode in iOS 18. It’s important to note that Apple wouldn’t be marketing this as a replacement for medical-grade hearing aids. However, this functionality could cater to users with mild hearing loss, offering a convenient solution for everyday situations.

macOS 15

macOS 15 is poised to benefit from the AI features sweeping through iOS 18. Many of the app improvements and Siri advancements will likely find their way onto the Mac, offering a more cohesive user experience across Apple’s device ecosystem. Specific features include a revamped Calculator app inspired by the iPhone version, a reorganization of System Settings for improved navigation, and the addition of new wallpapers. Developers will also be excited about a potential AI coding feature in Xcode, similar to GitHub’s Copilot tool, to streamline the development process. The official name for macOS 15 remains a mystery, but rumors suggest Apple might pick another California landmark, with possibilities like Redwood, Sequoia, or Diablo being tossed around.

watchOS 11

The Apple Watch won’t be left behind in the AI revolution. Improvements to Siri are expected to enhance its capabilities, making it a more effective on-the-go personal assistant. We might also see changes to specific apps like Fitness, leveraging AI to personalize workout experiences.

tvOS 18 / visionOS 2

Specific details about tvOS 18 are scarce, but considering the focus on AI, we can expect some improvements to Siri functionality on Apple TV. visionOS 2, the operating system powering Apple’s spatial computing headset, is expected to introduce dedicated Vision Pro versions of popular apps like Home, Reminders, and Voice Memos, bridging the functionality gap between the first iteration and its Pro counterpart. Code leaks also suggest the Mindfulness app might gain respiration tracking capabilities, and the Apple Vision Pro could receive support for the Apple Pencil Pro, opening doors for creative expression.