Apple’s Worldwide Developer Conference kicked off earlier in San Francisco. The annual shindig is where Apple shows off some of its biggest upgrades, updates and new products (generally, laptops).
Here’s what has the tech world hot under the collar this year:
Eyeing the Future
In a move that just might make the Metaverse an actual thing, Apple introduced the Vision Pro, an augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) headset.
It offers an interface that superimposes apps onto the real world and promises some truly engaging interactive experiences. And thanks to the M2 and R1 chips, real-time sensor processing (so you’ll be able to interact with the world around you) should be a breeze.
Read more here: Apple’s Vision Pro: The Future? Or a $3,500 Ski Mask?
A Breath of Fresh ‘Air’
A new MacBook Air blew into town, sporting a 15.3-inch display and weighing just over three pounds, confirming its title as the “world’s thinnest” 15-inch laptop. You can order one right now, with availability beginning next week.
Big Leaps for the Pros
Apple didn’t skimp out on its powerhouses. Both the Mac Studio and the Mac Pro will now wield the formidable M2 Ultra chip, pushing their performance even higher. The Mac Studio offers options for the M2 Max or the M2 Ultra chip, while the Mac Pro stays exclusive with only the M2 Ultra.
Putting Pen to App
You can now jot down your thoughts securely and privately. Apple’s new Journal app is designed to encrypt and store your musings safely on your device and will be released later this year.
Game, Feature(set), and Match
Apple is promising three updates this year. iOS 17 will introduce a StandBy feature, transcription for voice messages, a Check In feature, and a NameDrop for sharing contact information. iPadOS 17 will soon offer interactive widgets, real-time collaboration in PDF annotation, and a personalized lock screen. And macOS Sonoma, meanwhile, will have desktop widgets, movable screensavers, game mode, and an array of Safari improvements.
Watch This Space
For those who’ve been waiting, the watchOS 10 update brings widgets and features such asnew watch faces, a daylight exposure tracker, and hiking maps.
FaceTime Goes Bigscreen
Apple TV is set to support FaceTime using the iPhone’s Continuity Camera. Your iPhone doubles as a webcam for an easier, personalized experience.