Apple’s annual Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) delivered a host of updates and new products this year, including a glimpse of Apple’s new mixed-reality headset and a range of software updates. However, the biggest news has been the proposed design change to the iPhone 16 family, expected to launch in 2024, with the introduction of a periscope lens and a much larger primary camera sensor. The camera enhancement will allow the device to take in more light, improving low-light photography and dynamic range. Meanwhile, dummy models of the iPhone 15 have revealed that Apple is moving away from its proprietary lightning cable, and will include USB-C instead; there may be concern that this move, along with faster data speeds for the Pro model, could cause regulatory issues in Europe.
WWDC is a developer conference, which makes it an ideal platform to unveil the latest software updates from Apple. One of the standout updates is iOS 16, which now comes with Live Text, allowing users to copy, paste and even interact with text in images. There were also updates to iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS, with specific improvements for gamers, including the ability to access games on the Apple TV with no controller.
Alongside the software updates, Apple also showcased its new mixed-reality headset, revealing the inside of the device for the first time, which features a dual display and what appears to be an external battery pack. The headset will reportedly cost around $3,000, making it more expensive than the Oculus Quest 2, but analysts have pointed out that the Apple device is expected to be state-of-the-art in terms of what a consumer headset can offer; it’s hoped that this, combined with Apple’s branding, will sway consumers.
Apple also updated its computer range, with the 15-inch MacBook Air and two desktop Macs, both running the M2 Max processor. The Mac is still an important part of Apple’s product range, particularly in professional settings such as those requiring video and audio editing. The Apple Watch also got a mention, with a fascinating article outlining Apple’s proprietary release system on the watch’s straps, which forces users to choose only from a specific set of bands.
In other news, while the tablet market has been declining, Apple’s iPad continues to perform strongly. Recent research suggests that in the US, iPad sales were dramatically better than for any other tablet, with shipments dropping just 7% to 10.8 million units. The strong performance of the iPad is helping to keep the total sales market buoyant at a turbulent time. Overall, WWDC delivered a range of updates across a variety of product lines, with new software and hardware that should appeal to a wide range of users.
