My favorite iOS 18, iPadOS 18 and watchOS 11 features that flew under the radar at WWDC 2024
Can you describe the new Tapback functionality in iOS 18 and how it enhances user interaction in Messages?
The new Tapback functionality in iOS 18 brings several enhancements to user interaction in the Messages app. Firstly, it introduces more colorful and visually appealing Tapback icons, replacing the existing gray ones. Additionally, it allows users to react to messages with any emoji they want, expanding the options beyond the predefined set of six.
Another notable feature is the ability to see who has responded with which emoji in group chats. When a message has reactions attached to it, double-tapping it will bring up a balloon at the top of the screen, showing the emoji reactions and the respective users who used them. This feature can be useful for taking quick polls or understanding the sentiment of the group towards a specific message.
Overall, these enhancements to the Tapback functionality in iOS 18 aim to improve user engagement and expressiveness within the Messages app, making conversations more enjoyable and interactive.
What specific new feature does iOS 18 introduce to Apple Maps in relation to hiking?
iOS 18 introduces a new feature to Apple Maps in relation to hiking called custom route creation. This feature allows iPhone users to design their own specific routes for a hike, instead of relying on the suggested routes from Apple Maps. Users can create new routes in Maps by tapping anywhere to start defining their route, add waypoints by tapping to connect them, and then hit a "Close loop" button to finish their trail. These custom routes can be saved for offline reference and shared with others. The hiking routes that Apple will serve up in Maps are created by its own team, which is working with US National Parks, and will initially be available for the 63 national parks in the country.
How can users create and share custom routes in Apple Maps with the new iOS 18 update?
With the new iOS 18 update, users can create and share custom routes in Apple Maps by following these steps:
- Open the Apple Maps app and enter your destination in the search bar.
- Tap on "Directions" and select your mode of transportation (e.g., driving, walking, cycling).
- To add a stop, tap on "Add Stop" at the bottom of the Directions list3. You can search for a specific location or select one from your Favorites.
- Reorder your stops by dragging and dropping them in the desired order.
- Once you've added all your stops and set the order, tap "Go" to start your journey.
- To share your custom route, tap on the "Share" button while viewing the route. You can share the route via Messages, Mail, or other supported apps.
The custom route feature in Apple Maps for iOS 18 allows users to create bespoke navigation experiences tailored to their specific requirements. Users can select options such as scenic routes, avoiding tolls or highways, or prioritizing certain types of roads or locations. Additionally, they can indicate their preferred amenities, such as restrooms, charging stations, or specific types of establishments along the route.