WWDC23: Apple Continues its Legacy of Making Breakthrough Products: Vision Pro, iOS 17, and More

“There’s lots of ways to be, as a person. And some people express their deep appreciation in different ways. But one of the ways that I believe people express their appreciation to the rest of humanity is to make something wonderful and put it out there.” -- Steve Jobs

When Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak founded Apple Computer, Inc. almost 50 years ago, I’m sure they had not anticipated that the seed they were planting would grow into such a fruitful tree. The team is truly putting it out there.

And now, before we start discussing their latest gift to the world, let’s take a quick look at the timeline of breakthrough products from Apple.

Macintosh Computer – 1984

iPod – 2001

iPhone –2007

iPad – 2010

Apple Watch – 2014

AirPods – 2016

Apple Vision Pro - 2023

The Latest Addition to the List: Apple Vision Pro

Apple has been at the forefront of technological revolutions right from its inception, and the launch of the Apple Vision Pro headset is a step forward in taking the incredible legacy forward. The first glimpses suggest that Tim Cook’s “new kind of computer” seamlessly blends digital content with your physical space. By allowing you to navigate efficiently and easily using your voice, hands, and eyes, the device promises unparalleled convenience and experience. Apple Vision Pro is all set to redefine apps, entertainment, media, connection, design, and so much more. Unfortunately, it will be a while before you can get your hands on it, as Apple revealed that the headset will be available in the U.S. in early 2024.

At their event, Apple also announced its first spatial operating system – the visionOS. Built on the foundation of macOS, iOS, and iPadOS, visionOS enables powerful spatial experiences. It will be exciting to brainstorm all the amazing visions these headsets bring to life, and people on the internet are already talking about the many use cases of this incredible gadget.

iOS 17

Thanks to the increasing popularity of iPhones, the demand for iOS development services is also at an all-time high. To make things even better, Apple has now announced iOS 17, allowing you to do much more.

• Improved search filters for Messages (such a relief, right?)

• More interactive changes to the overall user experience

• Check-In notes to trusted contacts

• Create GIFs straight out of your videos

• Journal your personal recollections in the brand-new Journal app

• Offline access on Apple Maps (finally!)

• Siri responds without the ‘Hey’

  
  

I am sure the Vision Pro headset is amazing, and we’ll find that out in a few more months, but how exciting are all these new updates to iOS!

MacBook Air 15, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro

Among other announcements in the keynote were the launch of the MacBook Air 15, yet another powerful device with up to 18 hours of battery life, a 1080p camera, three microphones, and six speakers. The latest Mac Studio, starting at $1999, supports up to six (yes, you read that right) Apple Pro Displays simultaneously. On the other hand, the new Mac Pro now comes in the upright tower and horizontal rack orientations, has eight thunderbolt ports, and dual 10GB ethernet ports. And do you know what’s the best part? All the devices are now available here.

Other Key Announcements

• The all-new iPadOS 17 offers better customization for widgets and overall improvements.
• The MacOS Sonoma introduced major upgrades, such as a new gaming mode, improved videoconferencing, sharing of PassKey, and improved security on Safari.
• Adaptive audio is coming to AirPods along with SharePlay to take control of the music when somebody with CarPlay is driving.
• WatchOS 10 emphasizes cycling, offering Bluetooth connectivity to sensors on bikes for accurate tracking of functional threshold data. The compass has also received an upgrade. Please tell me the hiker in you is pleased. ��

Wrapping It Up

It is a sweet coincidence that I was reading a curated collection of Steve Jobs’ speeches only a couple of days ago. I must admit it is indeed delightful to witness Apple’s dedication to ‘thinking differently’ only intensifying each day long after Steve’s gone.

Which one of these are you most excited about?