Today at the WWDC 2017, Apple’s CEO Tim Cook took the stage to announce iOS 11, the next major update to the operating system that powers the iPhone and iPad across the world. The new update will improve on core technologies that power the operating system and as well as introduce new user interface features along with cosmetic changes here and there.
Although iOS 11 will be released this fall alongside the new iPhone models, Apple has announced the full list of features that will be a part of the update. Here is a look at the new and improved features.
SIRI
SIRI has received a host of new features starting with a change in how it sounds. The virtual assistant now sounds more natural than ever. Moreover, it will now be able to perform translations for the user from English to Chinese, German, French, Italian, and Spanish.
Camera App upgrade
The Camera App has also received a couple of noteworthy improvements. Users will now be able to take portrait photos with optical image stabilization. Portrait photos will now also have access to HDR and Flash. Apple is also introducing a new feature that will shrink the amount of storage space photos will take on the iPhone. A new loop and bounce effects feature can also be applied to live photos now (pictured above).
Control Center Changes
iOS will introduce a completely redesigned control center. The panel alongside with a brand new overlay will allow users to change music from a single screen.
Apple Maps upgrade
Apple Maps will now have indoor maps for malls and airports in select cities only. For now, the cities are limited to Boston, Hong Kong, Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington DC, Tokyo and more.
The maps app is also getting lane guidance and speed limits on major highways. You can now also turn a ‘do not disturb’ mode specifically designed for driving. This feature will block all text messages until and unless a user sends an urgent text. When someone sends you a text, they will get a prompt that you are busy, they can then reply with urgent and the text will be shown to you.
Quick Type Keyboard
iOS 11 is also introducing a new single-handed keyboard feature. If you ever find yourself typing with one hand, simply hold the emoji button and select one hand typing and the keys on the keyboard will move closer to your typing thumb.
App store redesign
Apple is also introducing a completely redesigned Appstore in iOS 11. They have added a new tab ‘Today’ which will show the latest and greatest apps released recently. A new ‘Games’ only tab has also been added.
Every app will now have a ‘making-of’ story which will give the user a greater insight into the application they’re about to download.
AR Kit
Apple is also building an Augmented reality kit directly into iOS which will give developers the tools to create content for AR which will most likely be a part of the next iPhone.
Other than these major changes, iOS 11 will also have a host of features specifically designed for the iPad. The iPad will be getting a file explorer app which will allow the users to explore local files on the tab. Additionally, iPad will also get a new drag and drop option where users can drag and drop applications or files from one screen to another while multitasking.
Other new features include FaceTime live photos, screen recording, one-handed keyboard, autofill in apps and more.
According to Apple, iOS will only be supported on iPhone 5S and later. All iPad Air and iPad Pro models will support the new iOS. As for other devices, Apple has confirmed that iPad 5th generation, iPad mini 2 and later devices will also support it alongside iPod touch 6th Gen.