Apple’s developer event typically focuses on software, with the tech giant usually saving new device presentations for its fall event. Last year’s developer conference was an exception, with the introduction of Apple’s augmented reality glasses, the Vision Pro. However, speculation suggests that this year’s event will concentrate on showcasing software capabilities and AI updates.
Apple is playing catch-up in the artificial intelligence field compared to companies like Google and OpenAI. Analysts predict that AI will play a central role at the conference, with features integrated into the operating system. AI capabilities are anticipated to include voice transcriptions, faster searches, and an enhanced Siri experience that may autonomously handle apps and provide smart summaries of missed information.
Siri is expected to broaden its reach to macOS computers and an updated version on the Apple Watch. Reports suggest that Apple is collaborating with OpenAI to bring their technology into iOS 18, while talks with Google about integrating its Gemini AI system may not have materialized into a partnership.
Improvements in iPhone messaging functionality might be revealed at the event, such as enhanced texting between iPhones and Android devices using RCS. The A18 processor, likely to power the next iPhone, is also expected to deliver superior AI performance with features that support AI-based tasks.
Reports also hint at visual changes to the iPhone operating system, including a revamped control center, upgraded messaging capabilities, a new photo app interface, and customizable app icon colors. The event is anticipated to offer insights into the future of Apple’s software ecosystem and the technological innovations it plans to introduce.