PHOTO: REUTERS
The next generation of iOS was announced at the WWDC in San Jose and is expected to be released this fall. The iOS update when it officially launches later this year will be offered for iPhone 5S and beyond, all iPad Air and iPad Pro models, iPad 5th generation, and iPad Mini 2.
The beta version includes the option to pay friends using Apple Pay, updated Messages app, Do Not Disturb mode while driving, new professional capabilities to photos and camera along with a more powerful Siri with a new voice.
Here are the details:
Screen recording to complement Screenshots
Apple changed the ways screenshot works with the option to make screen-recording too. Screenshots also go into a tab in the lower corner, so they can be marked before sharing.
Siri is more powerful and natural
The first thing you’ll notice about the updated Siri is its voice as the Apple’s digital assistant has a more natural tone now.
“Using the latest advancements in machine learning and artificial intelligence, new male and female voices are more natural and expressive, adjusting intonation, pitch, emphasis and tempo while speaking,” said Apple said in a statement.
Apple unveils new iPad, iMac and MacBook at developers conference
Siri can now even translate English words and phrases into Chinese, French, German, Italian or Spanish.
Apple’s digital assistant is getting smarter. Siri will now offer suggestions based on personal usage of Safari, News, Mail, Messages and more using on-device learning.
“Siri understands context, your interests, and how you use your device,” Mashable quoted Craig Federighi as saying. “What Siri learns about you on a device is kept synced across all of your devices and kept completely private, readable on all of your devices.”
Last year, Apple added third-party apps support to Siri. Taking it a notch further, Apple’s AI assistant will now work with a much wider selection of apps starting with iOS 11.
Pay friends with Apple Pay
One of the main features that Apple is introducing with iOS11 is person-to-person payments. Apple Pay users will be able to make and receive payments with friends and family. Users can send money and get paid in Messages, or tell Siri to pay someone, using the credit and debit cards they already have in Wallet.
Apple’s Senior Vice President of Software Engineering Craig Federighi speaks about Apple Pay on stage during Apple’s World Wide Developers Conference in San Jose, California on June 5, 2017. PHOTO: AFP
Users will receive the money in their new Apple Pay Cash account, which they can use instantly to send to someone, make purchases using Apple Pay in stores, apps and on the web, or transfer it from Apple Pay Cash to their bank account.
No more space problem for Messages
At the event, Apple also showcased the Messages app that stores your messages — all end-to-end encrypted — in iCloud, which means no more storage problem due to the tonnes of messages that you haven’t deleted since forever.
Clearing storage becomes easier simply by doing this -- your storage Settings > General > iPhone Storage
Do not disturb while driving
To ensure drivers are not distracted by notifications while driving, Apple has introduced the ‘do not disturb while driving’. Using Bluetooth, location, and Wi-Fi data to determine when you’re behind the wheel, the feature automatically silents notifications to keep the screen dark and help drivers focus on the road.
Users have the option of sending an auto-reply to contacts listed in Favourites to let them know they are driving and cannot respond until they arrive at their destination.
Professional Camera and Photos Features
With iOS 11, users can take pictures in portrait mode with optical image stabilisation, True Tone flash and HDR.
All you need to know about Apple’s iOS11
You will also be able to create continuous video loops with new Loop and Bounce effects. Keeping the storage constraints in mind, Apple also introduced a new technology called High-Efficiency Image File Format (HEIF) that reduces the file size of every photo taken with iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus.
Users can now create great long exposures without the need for a tripod.
Redesigned App Store
iOS 11 has a redesigned App Store. Hence, discovering apps and games is easier than ever before.
Indoor Maps
Apple Maps now has detailed indoor maps for major airports and shopping centres around the world. The new version also has lane guidance feature to help you avoid missing an exit or a turn while you’re driving.
You can update your iPhone to the new beta version but is recommended to wait till the final version releases so your device is not exposed to any bugs or faults.
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