WWDC 2021 is right around the corner – it runs for five days starting Monday, June 10. Like last year, it’s going to be a completely virtual event with various sessions streaming all week to developers.
But what exactly should regular users expect to take away from the event?
Well, WWDC always kicks off with an accessible keynote speech showcasing the biggest talking points of the year to the public. This will primarily include an exclusive preview of the new software releases coming later this year – so we’ll get a first look at iOS 15, iPadOS 15, watchOS 8, macOS 12, tvOS 15, and HomePod.
Those new versions of iOS and iPadOS are expected to improve the way notifications are handled – Apple’s approach has long lagged behind Android in this respect and users have been wanting an overhaul for years. It’s also been suggested that Apple will make big changes to iMessage and make even more improvements to its popular privacy features.
That’s just the tip of the iceberg, though. Apple typically keeps changes close to its chest, so we’re expecting plenty of surprises from the opening keynote speech.
From time to time, we see hardware reveals at WWDC too. This year, rumors abound that we’ll see the unveiling of an all-new MacBook Pro. We’re expecting a bold redesign that caters to developers – so more ports, larger displays, and a beefed up M1 chip under the hood.
It’s unlikely that Apple will announce any other hardware, but we’re not ruling a surprise or two out completely.
Apple is also supporting up-and-coming young developers with its Swift Student Challenge, which asks student coders to create a 3-minute digital experience using Apple’s coding language, Swift. We’re expecting more of a showcase alongside the annual Apple Design Awards during WWDC, but in the meantime, you can read about the amazing work some of this year’s young winners are doing right here.
Speaking of Apple Design Awards, they’ll be announced at 2pm PDT June 10. To whet your appetite, check out last year’s winners.
You have to be a registered developer to watch the live streams, but we’ll be reporting on all the big announcements right here so you won’t miss a thing. Stay tuned!