Last week, Apple’s WWDC 2020 came to an end. While the event this year was strictly online (remotely), several new updates revealed during the keynote will without a doubt shake the world of development of mobile apps. Below is what to look out for this coming fall on iOS your device.
iOS 14 features
Apple has unveiled its latest mobile operating system – iOS 14, as is customary at these events. The focus this year is on personalization and comfort. Specifically, when new widgets and the App Library were introduced, some argue that Apple does better than Android, which has long been known for being personalised for users.
The first update to the iPhone OS is its App library, which automatically sorts apps on a user’s phone and classifies them according to their functionality. It places the most commonly used software in a user – friendly view. Facebook and Twitter , for example, would appear on the social media page while Apple TV+ and Netflix would list under entertainment.
Users now have more widget options and can freely move them to the iOS 14 home screen to adapt it to their requirements. One of Apple’s widgets introduced during the event was the Smart Stack that basically includes a stack of several widgets that you swipe to rotate, and curates intelligently according to the time of the day.
Intel Chips to be replaced by Apple Silicon
Apple CEO Tim Cook declared in his important decision that Apple is stopping using Intel processors for long – lasting Macs to deploy ARM – based Apple Silicon chip computers for Macs. The first Mac computers with Apple chips will be released later this year as part of a two year transition. The switch is designed to improve the energy efficiency and battery life of Mac devices.
Mac computers will initially be able to run iPhone and iPad apps. Developers can develop applications that work on all Apple hardware. The new Apple operating system, Big Sur, has been designed to integrate with the latest processors to allow a smooth transition. Intel processors have been used by Apple computers for the last 15 years.
Apple HomeKit 2.0
The smart home platform of Apple uses facial recognition software that enables users to see who is at the door through their intelligent doorbells and cameras. In their homes, customers can also adjust the lighting. Apple has provided security, and noted that its Home App and HomeKit 2.0 use end-to- end encryption for customer protection.
Apple is working with Amazon, Google and other technology leaders to create a smart home network , making this innovative internet of things (IoT) standardized and easier to use.
Impact of WWDC on Mobile Developers
One of the key announcements is the latest user privacy enhancements which are included in the update to iOS 14. As of this fall 2020, consumers ‘ permission to use the IDFA Advertiser Identifier is required for applications, specifically allowing users to track apps and services.
However, the app from App Store has been shown to include summaries and a tailor – made overview of your personal privacy habits, as well as a connexion to your privacy policy. IDFA has long been predicted to depreciate, and it would seem that Apple has taken the first steps to give users the option to opt out. For greater visibility and power to implement user controls, it may have a significant influence on the vision and actions of your users, including your targeted marketing campaigns and even the use of third-party SDKs in your product.
This is a clear call for developers to talk to users to obtain monitoring permissions and clarify the value exchange when they grant their users these permissions. Developers and development companies must more than ever reimagine the mobile experience in new ways for app discovery and user acquisition.