On June 22, 2020, Apple began its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC20) that brought together a large number of fans and software developers for the Special Event Keynote and Platforms State of the Union around the world. The innovations will push the experience of Apple products even further. From macOS Big Sur to iOS 14, iPadOS 14, watchOS 7, and tvOS 14, here are the biggest features and app development tools announced at WWDC20. The 31st Worldwide Developers Conference was a digital-only event in 2020, with no physical gathering planned due to the global health crisis caused by COVID19.
macOS Big Sur
Safari browser now gets its biggest upgrade since its first release. It comes with faster performance and new features, as well as user protection and privacy enhancement. Users can now customize the welcome page with a background image and sections such as their iCloud Tabs and Reading List. They can also get a personalized experience with better support for browser extensions. The Mac App Store is a great place to easily discover and download Safari extensions. With the launch of the New Microsoft Edge browser earlier this year, it is clear that internet users will get a better web browser.
Mac Catalyst will make it easier for programmers to bring their iPad apps to Mac.
In macOS Big Sur, Mac Catalyst apps automatically inherit the new look, while giving developers powerful new APIs and total control over the look and behavior of their apps.
iOS 14
The APP Library will automatically arrange all user apps into a single simple, easy-to-navigate view, and by use of AI, will show apps that might be useful in the moment.
App Clips is designed to be discovered a soon as it is required, load a small portion of app experience within seconds to finish a given task such as purchasing coffee.
Pinned conversations in Messages, to enable users to quickly follow live group chats through mentions and inline replies.
New cycling directions in Maps consider elevation, how busy a street is and if there are stairs along the path.
IPadOS14
Scribble with Apple Pencil enables users to scribble in any text field and it will intelligently be converted into typed text. This makes actions like replying to an iMessage or searching in Safari fast and easy.
Search on iPad has been rebuilt with a superb design, which enables users to start a search from anywhere. Users are not required to leave the app they are in.
WatchOS 7
Apple Watch automatically detects handwashing and initiates a 20-second countdown. If the wearer finishes early, they’ll be prompted to keep washing. This is a first of its kind innovation for wearables.
Apple watch brings sleep tracking, taking a holistic approach to sleep by providing valuable tools to help users get the desired amount of sleep, get to bed on time, and create a pre-bedtime routine to meet their sleep goals.
Apple Watch wearers can share watch faces that are immensely customizable and personalized, inclusive of complications, through Messages or Mail, and discovered through the App Store or even from links through websites and social media channels.
tvOS 14
HomeKit-enabled video cameras and accessories can now be accessed by use of Siri or Control Center, and receive doorbell notifications on the big screen with live feeds showing who is there.
tvOS 14 expands multi-user capabilities to include Apple Arcade and other games, so everyone in the house can instantly resume their favorite games exactly where they left off. Through Control Center, players can easily switch between users, their game progress, Game Center achievements, leaderboards, and friends.
