From yesterday’s keynote at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), the company teased a range of updates expected to roll out this fall. Highlights include significant changes to iOS 18, macOS Sequoia, and watchOS 11, featuring RCS support, a new Passwords app, a revamped Calculator app, and enhanced AI capabilities through the new “Apple Intelligence” system.
Apple Intelligence
Apple’s new AI system, “Apple Intelligence,” will integrate into iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia. This generative AI will introduce tools for rewriting, proofreading, and summarizing texts, along with creating original emojis and images through a feature called Gemoji. Siri will also receive AI enhancements, enabling it to summarize articles, extract information from photos, and handle complex queries using large language models.
Privacy remains a key focus, with most AI processing occurring on-device. For tasks requiring more power, Apple’s Private Cloud Compute will ensure data security during advanced processing. Additionally, OpenAI’s ChatGPT will integrate with Apple Intelligence, assisting with tasks like recipe suggestions and home decor advice. Apple plans to support other AI models in the future, indicating a non-exclusive partnership with OpenAI.
iOS 18 and iPadOS 18
iOS 18 will introduce features like app locking and hiding, enhancing privacy for sensitive information. The Calculator app will receive significant improvements, including better unit conversions, activity tracking, and Notes app integration. For the first time, the updated Calculator app will be available on iPads, featuring Math Notes for solving equations with the Apple Pencil.
iPadOS 18 will also introduce a new Tab Bar, similar to the Dynamic Island on iPhones, and Smart Script in the Notes app for improving handwriting legibility.
macOS Sequoia
macOS Sequoia will incorporate many AI features from Apple Intelligence and introduce iPhone mirroring, allowing users to control their iPhone screen from their Mac. A new Passwords app will securely store passwords and verification codes across devices, with support for Windows.
Other updates include a snap window arrangement tool, Presenter Preview, and gaming enhancements. Users will also gain access to Image Playground, an AI image generator within Apple Intelligence.
watchOS 11
The upcoming watchOS 11 will feature Training Load, which rates workout effort levels, and a new Vitals app for comparing captured vitals to baseline measurements. The Activity app on iPhone will update to allow customization of displayed data, and Cycle Tracking will include detailed pregnancy insights.
visionOS 2 and AirPods Pro
Apple announced the international rollout of its Vision Pro headset and updates to visionOS, including spatial photos and new gesture controls. AirPods Pro will receive software updates for improved Voice Isolation and silent Siri interactions, such as nodding to answer calls and shaking the head to decline.
