Apple Stages Its Most Exciting WWDC Since iPhone's Debut

Set to kick off this evening in California, the 36th edition of Apple's annual Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) is expected to be one of the most exciting we've seen since the unveiling of the original iPhone. WWDC has traditionally focused on software updates across Apple's range, but this year's event is stirring up excitement with whispers of new hardware releases, including a much-anticipated mixed-reality headset.

Apple's Entry into Mixed Reality

The star of the show is anticipated to be Apple's mixed-reality headset. This technology, which marries augmented and virtual reality, has been in development at Apple for nearly a decade. The company has steadily built an ecosystem for augmented reality since it introduced AR support in iOS 12, and its platform is now the largest of its kind in the world.

The impending headset, rumored to resemble a ski mask with 4K screens, could be the most sophisticated device of its kind. Powered by custom Apple silicon akin to the M2 processors found in the latest MacBook Air and iPad Pro models, the headset is expected to offer a premium, immersive experience. Reports of a magnetic battery attachment align with the understanding that the M2 chip is power-hungry, which could restrict the device's portability. It's also anticipated that Apple has been adapting core iOS apps like FaceTime, Safari, and Books for the new product, with exclusive content from Apple TV+ in the pipeline.

Revamps to iOS 17 and watchOS 9

iOS 17 is expected to roll out significant updates, including a new journaling application that will enable users to track their mood and mental health over time. The Wallet app will reportedly support third-party credit cards, and improvements to the lock screen and split-screen functionality are also anticipated. In compliance with new EU regulations, Apple is also likely to introduce sideloading for European iPhone users and allow payments via third parties in the app store.

WatchOS is set to receive a significant overhaul, including a widget-heavy, edge-to-edge user interface optimised for the forthcoming Apple Watch Ultra. Enhanced core applications will hopefully improve the user experience even further.

Subtle Tweaks to iPadOS17 and macOS 14

iPadOS is not set for a major update, but Apple is expected to overhaul the Stage Manager feature following user dissatisfaction. The improvements should bring the iPad experience closer to that of a Mac, particularly since Apple has now launched iPad versions of Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro. Sideloading and support for third-party payment merchants in the app store could also be coming to iPadOS.

macOS 14 is expected to see minimal changes, with the primary updates coming to shared apps with iOS. Siri is expected to receive an update, including a simplified wake command.

Mac Pro, Mac Studio, and MacBook Air Launches

Apple's transition to its own Silicon architecture is nearing completion, with only the Mac Pro still featuring an Intel processor. A new, compact Mac Pro with the M2 Ultra chipset is expected to be launched at WWDC 2023. There are also rumours of a Mac Studio model with the same chip. Additionally, a 15-inch variant of the MacBook Air with the M2 chipset could also be on the horizon.

In keeping with World Environment Day, Apple is also likely to make sustainability announcements. It's anticipated that Apple will discuss the Swift coding language and potentially reveal a new software language for the mixed reality headset's operating system.

The event will be live-streamed on YouTube and Apple.com at 10:30 IST.