It’s always exciting when we get news from the tech world, especially from a behemoth of a brand like Apple. Today, the Silicon Valley bellwether unveiled an array of new products and features at this year’s Worldwide Developers Conference, including software updates to the iPhone and Apple Watch, as well as a new MacBook Air. We’ve gathered together all the big news you need to know right here.
New MacBook Air
Among the highlights at the WWDC is the announcement of the completely redesigned MacBook Air, which is an incredible 11.3mm in thickness, weighing only 2.7lbs. Despite the thinner silhouette, the liquid retina screens on the laptops will be slightly larger at 13.6in for watching content and FaceTime capabilities, the latter of which will benefit from the improved 1080p HD camera. The laptops will be available in four different colors.
M2 Chip
The highly-anticipated second generation of Apple’s M-series chips will power the aforementioned new laptops. The M2 improves upon the groundbreaking M1 with 100GB/s of unified memory bandwidth and cutting edge power efficiency, extending battery life up to 20 hours. For better productivity, the new chips will be able to handle larger workspaces and increased workloads without slowing down. Systems will be more capable of playing back 4K and 8K videos as well, thanks to the M2’s heightened processing power.
macOS Ventura
With the new laptop and processing chip comes a new and improved operating system: macOS Ventura, debuting this fall. Designed to increase focus and productivity, Ventura allows for a fluid transition between different apps and screens. FaceTime calls between computer and phone are also made to be more seamless with the Handoff app, and Continuity Camera brings advancements to video conferencing with options such as Desk View and Studio Light, among other features.
iOS 16
For the iPhone, the new iOS 16 debuts a new, more customizable lock screen with the capability to beautifully integrate your photos into your date and time display for an artistic depth of field. Taking notes from the usability of the Apple Watch, the lock screen is also better optimized for easy information at quick glance. Text messaging also gets new updates with the iOS 16, with the ability to edit recently sent messages and recover recently deleted messages. Other features include mail scheduling and iCloud Shared Photo Library, with access for up to six different users.
watchOS 9
The new Apple Watch operating system sports similar customization as the new iPhone lock screens. Updates will also come to the Workout app, with advanced metrics and training experiences, as well as the Sleep app, which now includes a sleep stages function. New apps will also be included, such as Medications, which allows users to better understand and track their prescriptions, and the FDA-cleared AFib History feature, which gives you deeper insight into your heart condition.
CarPlay Updates
Upcoming CarPlay features will allow users to have even more involved interaction with their vehicles. With a deeper integration with your car’s hardware, CarPlay can now let you do things such as change the interior climate or change the music directly on-screen. The instrument readout will now also keep you informed on the temperature, speed, and fuel level of your car right from the screen. Vehicles with CarPlay will be announced late next year.
