The company started the event by focusing on iOS 14, the next operating system for the iPhone. As part of its presentation, Apple unveiled a new feature called App Library, which automatically organizes apps on your home screen so you don't have to scroll through multiple pages.
Apple has also unveiled a more transparent way to discover and access new applications. The feature, called App Clips, offers a small part of an app to use when it's needed, whether it's to order a scooter on demand or food in a restaurant. These applications are small and integrate with Apple Pay. Users can then decide to download the full version of the application from the App Store.
The multi-day development event is being watched closely by consumers and developers alike to know what to expect from iPhones, iPads, Macs and Apple Watch. This year, for the first time, the event was entirely virtual due to the pandemic.
The event featured sophisticated camera work, zooming from frame to frame presenting from a range of locations, including an empty auditorium on Apple's sleek campus, a gym, a parking anda laboratory in an "undisclosed location".
Say hello to iOS 14
Few tech companies have as much power to change the way we communicate as Apple. But this year, Apple has shown how it has been influenced by one of the leading workplace messaging services.
Apple has also taken steps to eliminate some potential headaches for users. Incoming calls will no longer take control of your screen on iOS devices, including the iPad and iPhone. They will instead appear as a banner at the top of the screen.
Picture in Picture allows users to continue watching a video while switching to other applications, such as iMessage. Users can also move the video on the screen or hide it but continue to listen to the audio.
Apple moves away from Intel chips in Macs
Dubbed "Apple Silicon," the new chips will give Apple more control over updates and the user experience, and allow apps to work more seamlessly between iPhone, iPad, and Macs. The company's native applications already work with the new platform, as well as the main programs, including Microsoft Word and Adobe Photoshop.
Apple has announced several tools that will allow third-party application developers to redefine their offerings from the Intel-based chip system that the Mac line currently uses. The company also said it will continue to support and release new versions of macOS with Intel chips for "years to come".
Apple plans to launch its first computer with the new chips by the end of this year and expects the transition to be complete in two years, CEO Tim Cook said on Monday.
AirPods Updates
Apple has announced that AirPods will pass more seamlessly between devices and audio. For example, users can end a podcast and then retrieve their iPad to watch a movie. When a phone call arrives, the sound automatically goes to the call. The Pro version will now have a new feature called "spatial audio" which aims to reproduce surround sound or a cinema experience.
Pandemic products
The current health crisis has not only shaped the way the event went, it has also influenced some Apple products.
With WatchOS 7, the Apple Watch offers a coaching function for hand washing. It will sense that you are near a sink to the sound of the water and the way your hands move, and will give you a countdown. If you stop early, it will prompt you to continue washing.
At the same time, Apple offers users a new way to communicate the reality of this moment to their friends and family. Apple users can now add a face mask to their Memoji.
Confidentiality "Nutrition Labels"
In recent years, Apple has attempted to set itself apart from some of its technology peers by touting its commitment to digital privacy. This year's WWDC was no different.
Apple has announced that users will be able to choose to share only their approximate location with the apps. And in the App Store, users will be able to see highlights of an app's privacy information before downloading it.
Applications will also have privacy "nutrition labels" showing how much or little data they collect, such as financial information, browsing history or contacts. Each developer will declare their privacy practices themselves.
