What to expect from WWDC 2024: iOS 18, macOS 15 and so much AI
What significant announcement is anticipated from Apple at this year's WWDC regarding generative AI?
At this year's WWDC, Apple is anticipated to make significant announcements regarding its approach to generative AI. It is expected that AI will be integrated into many of Apple's built-in apps, and the company is reportedly in talks with Google and other companies about integrating an existing large language model (LLM) into iOS 18. Apple's CEO, Tim Cook, has also promised that the company will "break new ground" on generative AI in 2024, stating that "We believe it will unlock transformative opportunities for our users3."
What are the dates for the Apple World Wide Developer Conference (WWDC) this year, and what are the formats available for participation?
The Apple World Wide Developer Conference (WWDC) 2024 will be held from June 10 to 14. The event will be available in an online format for all developers, with a special in-person experience at Apple Park on opening day6. Developers and students can celebrate in person at a special event at Apple Park on opening day1. The entire conference will be available online for all developers, and the in-person experience will provide developers the opportunity to watch the keynote at Apple Park, meet with Apple team members, and take part in special activities6. Space for the in-person event will be limited, and details on how to apply to attend can be found on the Apple Developer site and app.
What is the status and expected release timeline for RCS integration in Apple's Messages app, and how does it relate to the broader industry context such as the DOJ's involvement?
The status of RCS integration in Apple's Messages app is that it was announced in November 2023, with a planned release in 2024. RCS, or Rich Communication Services, is a communication protocol developed by the GSM Association and is used by smartphone manufacturers and carriers to deliver text-based messages, images, and videos between devices1. Apple's adoption of RCS will improve messaging standards for non-iMessage conversations, especially between iPhone and Android users.
As for the expected release timeline, Apple has only mentioned that RCS support will be added "later next year." There is speculation that it could come toward the end of the year, possibly with the release of iOS 18. However, no specific date or time frame has been officially confirmed by Apple.
In the broader industry context, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has been involved in pushing for the adoption of RCS by Apple. The DOJ, along with the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA), has been advocating for more interoperability between messaging platforms, especially between iOS and Android devices. Apple's adoption of RCS can be seen as a response to this regulatory pressure, as it shows a willingness to support device interoperability and adopt a universal messaging standard.
In summary, the integration of RCS in Apple's Messages app is expected to happen sometime in 2024, and the broader industry context involves regulatory pressure from the DOJ and the EU's DMA for more interoperability between messaging platforms.