WWDC 2024: What to Expect at Apple’s Annual Developer Conference

Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference is taking place next week. And if reports are to be believed the Cupertino-tech giant is set to put the focus on AI and software at its latest developer conference.

With both Google and Microsoft showcasing their AI advancements, Apple is also looking to make waves in the AI space. Apple is also reportedly skipping hardware announcements at this year's annual developer conference.

WWDC 2024: How to Watch the Livestream?

WWDC 2024 begins on Monday, June 10, with the first keynote starting 1 PM ET / 10 AM PT / 10:30 PM IST. The WWDC 2024 event will be streamed live on the company's official website and YouTube channel. We've embedded the link below for your convenience.

WWDC 2024: What to Expect?

AI Enhancements | Apple is anticipated to incorporate AI extensively within its operating systems, focusing on Siri. Bloomberg reports that Siri has been reworked using large language models. This upgrade aims to make Siri more responsive and capable within Apple's apps.

Apple will reportedly brand these AI features as "Apple Intelligence." Expect AI summaries for messages and webpages, real-time transcriptions in Notes and Voice Memos, and a custom emoji generator. The Photos app may also get AI tools to remove objects and people from images.

Partnership with OpenAI | Apple is said to have explored partnerships with Google and Anthropic but has secured a deal with OpenAI. This partnership will likely introduce a ChatGPT-like chatbot to Apple's devices, enhancing the user experience with personal assistant-like conversations.

Rich Communication Services (RCS) Adoption | Apple is adopting Rich Communication Services (RCS) as the fallback for iMessage, potentially with iOS 18. This would allow iPhone and Android users to exchange longer texts and higher-quality photos, all while maintaining end-to-end encryption. Regulatory pressures have influenced Apple's decision to implement RCS.

Customizable Homescreen | iOS 18 might finally allow users to arrange apps with blank spaces between them. Additionally, Apple may integrate a theming system, enabling users to recolor icons to match each other for a more personalized experience.

App Updates | With updates for Mac, iPhone, iPad, and beyond, Apple will likely introduce new and enhanced versions of its built-in apps. Rumours suggest a refreshed Calculator app for iPad, a cross-platform password manager, and redesigns for Settings and Control Center screens.

Apple's redesigned iPad Pro, launched in May, features the new AI-focused M4 chip. Currently, MacBooks have M3 chips, while Mac Studio and Mac Pro lag with M2 chips. Although there are no rumors of refreshed Macs appearing at WWDC, updates might come later this year. As of now, AI appears to be the primary focus of Apple at this year's WWDC.