This week, Apple’s WWDC – its annual developer conference – took center stage, showcasing the next generation of its operating systems.
Usually, Apple includes a hardware release or two. This year, though, it unveiled something bigger: its AI plans. Not Artificial Intelligence, but Apple Intelligence (we admit, the name is clever).
We also saw a surprise Galaxy Watch reveal and a new smallest 4K camera. Let’s quickly recap the most important tech news stories from the past week.
7. Apple Intelligence Unveiled
At WWDC 2024, Apple announced improvements to its operating systems, including new features for iOS 18 and macOS Sequoia. The highlight, however, was Apple Intelligence.
This AI will make Siri smarter, improving its ability to understand context and use information from images, calendar events, and messages. If Siri gets stuck, it can ask ChatGPT-4o for help, with your permission.
Apple Intelligence can proofread writing, summarize documents, and create custom emojis. Apple emphasizes privacy, stating that its models run on private servers, with data encrypted and only temporarily stored.
6. iOS 18’s New Features
Apple introduced iOS 18, set to be the biggest update to the iPhone operating system in years. The Mail app will categorize emails logically and summarize them. The Photos app will filter photos by themes and screenshots. The Messages app will allow reactions with any emoji and message scheduling.
Other changes include rearranging app icons and widgets, a new dark mode, and a revamped Control Center. iOS 18 will provide a smarter, sleeker, and more customizable iPhone experience, likely with the iPhone 16.
5. Global Vision Pro Launch Dates
After its US launch, the Vision Pro will debut in China, Japan, and Singapore on June 28, 2024. It will launch in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, and the UK on July 12. The price will be £3,499 / AU$5,999, higher than expected based on exchange rates.
Later this year, visionOS 2 will bring mixed reality upgrades, spatial photo versions of flat snaps, and a new train travel mode.
4. Free AirPods Upgrades for iOS 18
Apple announced new features for certain AirPods models with iOS 18. Voice Isolation will cut out loud noise during calls for AirPods Pro 2. Improved Siri Interactions will let AirPods Pro 2 users respond to Siri with head movements.
Spatial Audio in gaming will come to AirPods 3, AirPods Max, and both AirPods Pro models. Lower-latency connectivity will benefit gamers using AirPods Pro 2 with iPhone 15 Pro Max. Better voice quality in games will also be available for AirPods Pro 2.
3. Samsung Galaxy Watch FE Revealed
The Galaxy Watch FE was revealed ahead of its expected showing at Unpacked. The 40mm smartwatch features a Sapphire Crystal display and Samsung’s wellness tools, including advanced running analysis and a body composition tool.
Priced at $199.99 for Bluetooth and $249.99 for LTE, it will launch in a few weeks.
2. Loss of Fitbit’s Popular Feature
Fitbit fans faced disappointment as the platform’s popular web dashboard feature was axed. Fitbit, owned by Google, wants users to use the smartphone app exclusively. The web dashboard’s benefits, like easier data entry and custom meal plans, will be missed, pushing some users to consider rival brands like Garmin, Xiaomi, and Apple.
1. Insta360 Go 3S: World’s Smallest 4K Camera
Insta360’s Go 3S, the latest in its tiny action camera series, offers 4K video in a size comparable to a pack of gum. The waterproof camera is fun for all ages and comes with magnetic mounting and various accessories. It records crisp 4K video from unique angles, underwater, on clothing, or on magnetic surfaces.
Pair it with the Action Pod for a flip touchscreen or use Insta360’s app for control. The Go 3S is now an excellent choice for a fun video camera.
