Before they launch for free this fall, Apple's next-generation platforms will be available in beta form starting today for registered developers. Members of Apple's public beta program will also be able to test the future of iOS and macOS starting in July.
Introduced as a new way for children to learn how to code, Apple will bring its Swift programming language to iPad with Swift Playground, a touch-friendly way for beginners to grasp the basics.
Apple introduced a dedicated "Home" iOS app at its Worldwide Developers Conference on Monday, finally introducing a manual control interface for HomeKit accessories to iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch.
As the most-used app on iOS, Apple's Messages will receive a major overhaul in the upcoming iOS 10 update, including a number of emoji-related enhancements, dynamic text bubbles, and rich links with images automatically integrated into chats. Third-party developers will also be able to tap into and expand iMessages with their own creations
Apple's Maps and Music services will gain new functionality and and new looks with the upcoming launch of iOS 10, the company announced at WWDC on Monday. In particular, Maps will gain in-app functionality with third-party extensions, while Music has a cleaner design that simplifies playback and discovery.
Apple on Monday announced a third-party SDK for its Siri virtual assistant, opening up voice control options for developers integration.
Two of the fundamental components of iOS — the lock screen and home screen — are getting a fresh look starting with iOS 10, giving users quick access to information and data with minimal interaction needed. In addition, enhancements to Photos will make it easier to find and group pictures and videos.
Apple has announced it will rebrand its OS X platform as macOS with an update coming later this year, dubbed Sierra, with an emphasis on syncing data and settings through the cloud, and the debut of Siri on the Mac.
Apple during WWDC announced an updated Remote iOS app for the Apple TV, promising to carry over features from the Siri Remote to iPhones and iPads.
At WWDC 2016 on Monday, Apple SVP of Internet Software Eddy Cue threw a spotlight on a few new tvOS apps including popular streaming services SlingTV, which launched today, and French video app Molotov.tv, among others
A number of enhancements are coming to the fourth-generation Apple TV later this year, including the ability to authenticate a cable subscription just one time across a variety of apps.
User complaints about slowness on Apple Watch have not gone unheard, as Apple is planning major improvements to speed and responsiveness with watchOS 3, including background loading of data, a quick-access Control Center, and dynamic new uses for the side button.
At its Worldwide Developers Conference on Monday, Apple CEO Tim Cook said the App Store recently reached a milestone with more than two million apps in circulation, which have generated nearly $50 billion for developers.
{{ summary }}
Neil Hughes
AppleInsider Staff
Roger Fingas
