WWDC 2024 is just a few hours away. To date, we've seen a host of exciting new features that have us all thrilled about the arrival of iOS 18, which promises to be the most innovative update for the iPhone yet. And now, at the eleventh hour, six new rumors have emerged. Let's take a look at them in time to discover the surprises Apple has in store for us.
App Protection with Face ID
As reported by MacRumors, one of the rumored new features for iOS 18 is the ability to lock specific apps using Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode. This native function would allow us to add an extra layer of security to sensitive applications such as Mail, Messages, Photos, and more, even when the device is already unlocked. It is still unclear whether it would use the same phone code or could be a new and unique code for each application.
This is particularly useful in situations where, although the device is entrusted to someone else, a level of privacy in certain apps is desired. Imagine, for example, giving your phone to a friend without fear that they could access your email or photos.
More Integrated Dark Mode
Originally introduced in iOS 13, dark mode has become a favorite for many. Rumors suggest that iOS 18 might take this a step further by applying a dark theme not only to the interface but also to the application icons on the home screen, automatically adjusting their appearance when dark mode is activated.
Custom Reactions and Scheduled Messages in App Messages
iOS 18 could transform the way we interact with the Messages app, that much we know. But in addition to everything discussed so far, according to Mark Gurman, it now seems that the ability to react with any emoji available on the keyboard might be introduced.
Remember that until now, the options for reacting to content were predefined, and we could only play with a few variants. True, it was different with stickers, but being able to send any emoji instead of just any sticker would make the response process much faster and just as personalized.
Additionally, there is also a rumor that we could schedule messages to be sent later. This feature would be ideal for coordinating messages across different time zones or simply to remember birthdays and other important events.
AI Improvements in Mail
The integration of new AI capabilities in Mail could also bring us several surprises, the rumors say. The Mail application is expected to include "Smart Replies" generated by an on-device language model, allowing us to quickly respond to emails with contextual suggestions. Additionally, assistance in composing emails could help us draft more effective and professional messages with just a tap.
Another possible innovation is improved search within the app, which could now incorporate relevant information from contacts, locations, and local documents, making information management easier without leaving the Mail application.
Revamped Control Center
Finally, according to MacRumors, the last interesting rumor is the overhaul of the Control Center, which would allow for entirely new customization and flexibility. There is talk of the possibility to add multiple pages and rearrange controls according to our preferences.
Additionally, a new and improved music widget is expected to span the full width of the Control Center and display more visual elements like album artwork. All this in a more modular approach, as the ability to rearrange controls could be a significant usability improvement for many.
Remember WWDC 2024 starts today and we've already talked about how and where to watch its Keynote live. With adaptability and customization at the core of the new features, we're not just hoping to see all the recent rumors come to fruition; we're also anticipating that Apple will once again surprise us with something entirely unexpected. Moreover, we hope that the latest updates to the operating systems will significantly transform our daily interactions with technology.
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