At the Apple WWDC 2021 annual event, Apple unveiled some major updates to iOS, FaceTime for non-iPhone users, iMessage, Apple Maps, Siri, AirPods, Apple Wallet, Safari and a new iCloud Plus service with enhanced privacy controls during the company’s big keynote address, with CEO Tim Cook kicking off the event with his keynote speech.
Apple also debuted MacOS Monterey, formerly known as MacOS 12, as well as WatchOS 8 and iPadOS 15.
Here is everything announced at Apple WWDC 2021 annual event:
macOS
MacOS Monterey will be the name of the next major release of the operating system.
MacOS Monterey, also known as MacOS 12, is the newest version of Apple’s operating system for Macs.
New features in MacOS Monterey include Universal Control, which allows Mac users to travel between their Mac and iPad with a single mouse and keyboard for a smooth experience. AirPlay and a new Safari browser with improved device sync abilities are also included. Several new features from iOS 15, such as spatial audio in FaceTime and Apple’s Focus function, were also incorporated to the OS.
iOS 15
The iOS 15 focuses on four aspects, according to Apple: staying connected, focusing, using intelligence, and exploring the world.
FaceTime will work over the web, allowing those who don’t have an Apple device to engage in video calls.
iPadOS
Apple announced that iPadOS 15 will include a “shelves” feature that will display open “windows” within an app.
Apple says that this will make multitasking on the iPad much easier.
The iPad widgets have a distinct feel to them as well. Apple says that its newest widgets will be larger, making interaction easier.
The iPad will also get Apple’s “App Library” functionality. The “App Library” is being added to the bottom dock.
Safari
Apple stated that it is redesigning Safari to make it more visually appealing and to add more sync features between devices.
On the iPhone, Apple has stated that the tab bar will be moved to the bottom of the page rather than the top. According to Apple, this makes it easier to access and use.
Safari’s desktop app extensions will also be available on the iPhone and iPad, according to Apple.
Apple Wallet
Apple is adding home, business, and hotel keys to Apple Wallet, allowing you to use your phone to unlock compatible doors in those locations.
Security
The Mail app will now hide your IP address and location from tracking pixels.
An “App Privacy Report” option in settings will now describe how often each app accesses your location, photographs, and other data, in the hopes of identifying any unusual behaviour.
FaceTime
FaceTime users can send a link to their friends, who can then click on it to be taken to a webpage that appears like the FaceTime program on an iPhone.
Apple Maps
With the addition of 3D elevation maps, 3D modeled landmarks, crosswalks, bike lanes, and other elements, Maps is getting a makeover.
You utilize the camera to scan nearby buildings to better position the phone and figure out the way you should move in when you start walking.
Privacy
Apple announced in iOS 15 that it will begin masking users’ IP addresses, which means that corporations won’t be able to identify and track you based on your internet address.
Live Text
In photos, the camera can now recognize text and make it selectable or searchable. It can even recognize items that aren’t text.
AirPods
When you’re having a face-to-face discussion in a noisy area, AirPods Pro will now allow you to enhance the volume of others around you.
WatchOS
WatchOS can now detect your respiratory rate and note how you breathe differently throughout the day.
A new “Portraits” watchface will generate a tidy, layered-looking clock arrangement using your portrait-mode photos.
Health
Other elements in Apple’s Health app are being developed to aid in the decoding of health data. The company says to be incorporating “trends” into its Health app, which will display if you’re becoming more or less active.
Apple is also introducing a feature that allows you to share your health data with your family.
Siri
Apple stated that it will collaborate with partners to make Siri available on their devices as well.
iCloud plus
Apple is expanding its service offerings, this time focusing on privacy. The new iCloud Plus is intended to help you hide your data from the internet.
Notifications
You may now tell iOS to group together less important notifications and deliver them all at the same time.
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