Apple's non-AI WWDC plans include Settings and Control Center revamps
What specific AI-powered controls will Siri gain according to Apple's plans revealed for WWDC 2024?
According to Apple's plans revealed for WWDC 2024, Siri will gain the ability to control specific features within apps, allowing users to perform tasks such as opening documents, sending emails, and more, all through voice commands. This will initially be limited to Apple's own apps, with the company planning to support "hundreds" of commands within its apps. The revamped Siri will reportedly arrive as an update to iOS 18 and will be capable of analyzing your phone's activity to automatically enable Siri-controlled features. However, at launch, Siri will only be able to process one command at a time, with the ability to handle multiple tasks in a single request being introduced later.
How will the Settings app UI change in iOS and macOS as part of Apple's upcoming updates?
The Settings app UI in iOS and macOS is set to receive a refreshed design with the upcoming updates. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the new Settings app will have a "cleaner" UI, which will enable better organization of various settings categories. This redesign aims to make the Settings app simpler to navigate, addressing issues with the current version, where searching for specific settings often leads to inaccurate or no results.
The reorganization will be based on priority and overall importance, making it easier for users to find and access the settings they need. This update will be a part of iOS 18 and macOS 15, and it is expected to be unveiled at the 2024 Worldwide Developers Conference.
In addition to the Settings app, other aspects of the operating systems, such as Control Center, Messages, and Mail, will also receive updates and improvements. These updates will focus on enhancing user experience and making various settings and features more accessible and user-friendly.
What new feature is being added to the Control Center in iOS, and what improvements are expected for smart home appliance management?
The Control Center in iOS is set to receive a new music widget, offering users quick access to controls for their currently playing audio. In addition to this, improvements are expected for the management of smart home appliances. While specific details about these improvements have not been revealed, it is anticipated that users may be able to customize which devices show up in the Home widget, enhancing the overall user experience for smart home control. These updates aim to make the Control Center more efficient and user-friendly for both audio control and smart home management.