ChatGPT integrated into Siri, and generating new emojis on command are just some of the new features Apple has unveiled in their latest update at the company’s annual developer conference, WWDC.
Joining the artificial intelligence frenzy, the company announced Apple Intelligence, a personal intelligence system for iPhone, iPad, and Mac that combines the power of generative models with personal context to simplify and accelerate everyday tasks.
Among the features, users will now be able to use ChatGPT through Siri without having to create an account. Siri will also be able to answer more questions and perform specific tasks in and across apps, from proofreading to text summarizing.
For people with disabilities, Apple introduced a new accessibility feature, too, which lets them control their devices with just their eyes.
Safari, Apple’s browser, receives significant enhancements in iPadOS 18, including Highlights and a redesigned Reader experience for distraction-free browsing. Leveraging machine learning, Safari now provides essential information about webpages, streamlining the browsing and discovery process.
This system, embedded into iPadOS 18, iOS 18, and macOS Sequoia, utilizes generative models and personal context to deliver relevant intelligence while maintaining user privacy.
Calculator and Notes app updates
Other innovations include redesigned apps, powerful enhancements to Apple Pencil functionality and the long-awaited ‘Calculator with Math Notes,’ eliminating the need for third-party apps and allowing users to solve math problems directly on their iPads.
The new calculator also works with Apple Pencil, so users can solve math problems after writing them out with the stylus.
The iPhone maker is also introducing Smart Script in the Notes app, improving the appearance of handwritten text using machine learning, spell-checking the text and recreating the user’s handwriting style.
Customizing just got easier
The forthcoming software update will also introduce the rumored ‘Passwords’ app and several new iOS 18 features, including improved privacy controls, empowering users to manage app permissions and data access more effectively, ensuring enhanced transparency and control over digital privacy.
Users will now also be able to personalize their home screens including putting emojis anywhere on the screen grid and enable dark mode for app icons. Apple owners can now change the flashlight and camera shortcuts on the lockscreen.
Apple has also introduced new iMessage features like scheduling messages and using a Tapback reaction with any emoji or sticker, as well as new privacy controls like the ability to hide apps.
Other new features include a new screen-sharing feature in SharePlay that allows you to remotely control another person’s iPad, redesigned Settings and Photos apps, and a customizable floating tab that makes it easier to navigate apps.
Apple also said it would adopt Rich Communication Services (RCS) to improve messaging between iPhones and other smartphones like Android devices.
The developer beta of iPadOS 18 is available on Monday, with a public beta scheduled for launch in July. The final release is slated for this fall as a free software update for eligible iPad models.
