Apple announced new software for its iPhones, iPads, Macs, Apple TV and Apple Watch on Monday. It also said future Macs — including one that will launch later this year — will use chips made by Apple instead of Intel.
Apple CEO Tim Cook delivers the keynote address during the 2020 Apple Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) at Steve Jobs Theater in Cupertino California June 22 2020
Apple said the transition from Intel will enable the company to offer faster performance on its laptops and desktops. Apple also introduced iOS 14, the latest version of the iPhone software, which includes updates such as the ability to set a default mail app or browser app, a redesigned home screen, and new lightweight software programs called “App Clips.”
The new software was announced in a prerecorded video filmed at Apple’s campus. Apple CEO Tim Cook acted as a master of ceremonies, briefly introducing Apple employees to present new features. Apple’s WWDC conference is being held remotely this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In recent years, Apple has gathered 6,000 developers in San Jose, California, but this year, it is distributing videos and setting up calls instead of an in-person conference. Before the presentation started, Cook addressed the current protests against racism including a mention of Apple’s $100 million program to fight racial injustice. Apple decided to hold a digital-only event in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Developers can download the new iOS this week, and a public beta will be released in July, Apple said. Future Macs will use Apple-designed chips, Apple said. Apple has been using Intel chips in its Macs for the last 15 years. Cook said it is a “huge leap forward.” Apple said it is designing its own chips specifically for the Mac to provide more performance while using less power. Apple currently uses its own chips on its iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches and Apple TVs, and said it had shipped over 2 billion chips so far. Macs with Apple’s own chips will be able to run iPhone and iPad software. The transition will require software makers to update their software for compatibility.
- Translate app
Apple has introduced a new translation app, called Translate, that enables real-time translation between two different languages. An iPhone with the Translate app can be put in between two people speaking different languages and can translate what they are saying in real time.
- Apple CarPlay and digital car keys
Apple announced new updates to CarPlay, its software that enables an iPhone to pair with a supported head unit so users can control their iPhone while driving. The biggest update is digital car keys in iOS 14 and iOS 13, which enables users to unlock and start their car from their phone. The first supported car is the 2021 BMW 5-series, which will be released next month, Apple said.
- App Store and App Clips
Apple introduced a new lightweight form of software it calls App Clips that can be launched through the web or a text message. App Clips are less than 10 megabytes. Users can tap an NFC tile or scan a QR code-like image to pull up an App Clip at participating businesses. Users can sign into an App Clip using Apple’s sign-in method and pay through Apple Pay.
- AirPods
Apple said that its wireless earbuds, AirPods, will now automatically switch from your iPhone to your computer when needed. Currently, a user needs to open the Bluetooth settings to switch to AirPods if they move between Apple devices.
- Apple Watch
The latest version of the Apple Watch software can track user sleep patterns using a machine learning model that senses motion at night. It includes a feature to nudge users to go to bed and new alarm features to gently wake users up. The new Apple Watch software will also include a hand-washing timer for the first time. It will be available in public beta in July.
- Apple HomeKit and Apple TV
The Home app now supports face recognition for home cameras using the facial recognition data inside a user’s photo app. Apple’s set-top box, the Apple TV, is getting a software update that includes support for multiple users and additional controller support for games. The latest version of the Apple TV can also display picture-in-picture, if you need to, for example, monitor financial news while watching a workout video.
- MacOS Big Sur
Aside from the technology transition, Big Sur includes new system sounds, a redesigned notification center and additional widget features. The new notification center can be accessed by clicking on the time in the upper right corner, which includes widgets and toggles for sound, brightness and wireless connectivity. Apple will also offer a marketplace for Safari extensions as part of the Mac App Store. Safari’s start page and tabs have also been redesigned, and it can translate websites automatically. The public beta of macOS Big Sur launches in July.
Apple/MS