Apple unveils updates at WWDC
APPLE has introduced a series of hardware and software products at its “Worldwide Developers Conference” (WWDC) in the United States.
At the event on Monday morning, Apple previewed High Sierra, the latest version of its desktop operating system, delivering new core storage, video and graphics technologies that it says will pave the way for future innovation on the Mac.
Coming out this autumn as a free software update in the Mac App Store, macOS High Sierra offers an all-new file system, support for high-efficiency video coding (HEVC) and an update to Metal, Apple’s advanced graphics technology. The update also includes refinements to Photos, Safari and Mail.
Key new features include the Apple File System (APFS), which promises enhanced performance, data security and reliability. Apple says APFS makes common operations such as copying files and directories instantaneous, helps protect data from power outages and system crashes, and keeps files safe and secure with native encryption.
High Sierra adds support for creation of virtual-reality content for the first time, enabling developers to create immersive gaming, three-dimensional and VR content on the Mac.
Apple also gave a sneak peek at the next-generation iMac Pro, which is scheduled to ship in December starting at US$4,999. It features a 27-inch Retina 5K display, up to 18-core Xeon processors and up to 22 teraflops of graphics computation in a new space-grey enclosure.
Moreover, Apple has updated its iMac line with up to three times more powerful graphics, faster processors, Thunderbolt 3, faster storage options and brighter Retina displays, and added a Retina 4K display and discrete graphics to the $1,299 21.5-inch iMac.
Apple has also refreshed its MacBook and MacBook Pro lines with faster Kaby Lake processors. The MacBook now features up to 50 per cent faster solid-state drives and supports up to twice the memory. The 15-inch MacBook Pro now comes standard with more powerful discrete graphics, and the 13-inch MacBook Pro adds a new $1,299 configuration.
Access to 40m songs
One of the highlights was the launch of HomePod, a wireless speaker for the home that delivers quality audio. HomePod is designed to work with an Apple Music subscription for access to more than 40 million songs and deep knowledge of personal music preferences.
HomePod is also set up to be a home assistant, to send messages, get updates on news, sports and weather, or control smart home devices by simply asking Siri. HomePod will be priced at $349 and will be available starting in December, initially in the US, the United Kingdom and Australia.
Apple also launched the all-new 10.5-inch iPad Pro and a new 12.9-inch iPad Pro featuring an advanced display with ProMotion technology and high performance with the new A10X Fusion chip. The new 10.5-inch model reduces the borders by nearly 40 per cent to fit into a compact package that still weighs less than half a kilogram.
Apple also launched the latest version of its mobile operating system – Apple’s iOS 11. It comes with a new advanced featured that bring the macOS experience to the phone. It makes multitasking on an iPad more powerful with a new customisable Dock that provides quick access to frequently used apps and documents from any screen, and a redesigned app switcher that makes it easier to move between pairs of active apps, used in Split View and now Slide Over.
Apple iOS 11 will be a free software update for iPhone and iPad this autumn.
The company also previewed watchOS 4 for the Apple Watch at WWDC. The update features an enhanced Workout app and introduces GymKit, a technology platform that will offer customers connected workouts with cardio equipment.
