Apple’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) is set to kick off today, June 5, 2023, with a keynote address at 10 AM. PT. The event will be online for everyone to watch for free, but there will also be a “special experience” for developers and students in person at Apple Park on opening day.
WWDC is where Apple showcases its latest software and hardware innovations for its platforms, including iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS. This year, the rumors are buzzing with anticipation for some major announcements, such as the Apple VR headset, the new Mac Pro, the 15-inch MacBook Air, and more.
Here are some of the highlights we expect to see at WWDC 2023:
Apple VR headset
The most exciting and speculated product that could debut at WWDC is the Apple VR headset, a mixed-reality device that combines virtual reality and augmented reality technologies. According to various reports, the headset will have dual 4K displays that are 50 times brighter than the Oculus Quest 2’s, advanced eye-tracking and hand-tracking features, and a sleek design that resembles a pair of sunglasses.
The headset will also run on a new operating system called xrOS, which will allow developers to create immersive apps and games for the device. However, the headset might be very limited in supply and very expensive, with some sources claiming that Apple might only ship 100,000 units in its first year and charge a whopping $3,000.
New Macs
Another big announcement that could happen at WWDC is the launch of new Macs powered by Apple’s own silicon chips. The company has already released several models with the M1 chip last year, such as the MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, Mac mini, and iMac. Now, we might see the next generation of Macs with the M2 or M3 chips, which are expected to offer even better performance and efficiency.
One of the most anticipated Macs is the new Mac Pro, which is rumored to have a modular design that allows users to customize and upgrade their components. The new Mac Pro could also come with a new display that supports ProMotion technology, which dynamically adjusts the refresh rate up to 120Hz for smoother scrolling and animations.
Another possible Mac that could make an appearance is the 15-inch MacBook Air, which would be a larger version of the popular ultraportable laptop. The 15-inch MacBook Air could have a thinner and lighter design than the current MacBook Pro models, as well as an improved keyboard and trackpad. The laptop could also feature the M2 chip, which would give it a boost in speed and battery life.
Software updates
Of course, WWDC is not only about hardware, but also about software. Apple will unveil the latest versions of its operating systems for its devices, such as iOS 17, iPadOS 17, macOS 14, watchOS 10, and tvOS 17. These updates will bring new features and improvements to enhance the user experience and functionality of Apple’s products.
Some of the rumored features for iOS 17 include a redesigned home screen with interactive widgets, an improved notification system with more customization options, and a revamped iMessage app that competes with WhatsApp and Telegram. iOS 17 could also introduce new privacy features that give users more control over their data and how apps use it.
iPadOS 17 could also get some major changes that make it more like a desktop operating system. For example, iPadOS 17 could support external monitors with extended desktop mode, allow users to place app windows anywhere on the screen, and enable multitasking gestures similar to macOS. iPadOS 17 could also bring support for Pro apps like Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro to the iPad.
macOS 14 could continue the transition from Intel-based Macs to Apple silicon-based Macs by adding more compatibility and optimization features. For instance, macOS 14 could allow users to run iOS and iPadOS apps natively on their Macs, as well as support Windows 10 through virtualization or emulation. macOS 14 could also introduce a new design language that matches iOS and iPadOS, as well as new features for Safari, Mail, and Photos.
watchOS 10 could bring new health and fitness features to the Apple Watch, such as blood pressure monitoring, blood glucose monitoring, and sleep tracking. watchOS 10 could also add new watch faces and complications, as well as new apps and integrations with third-party services. watchOS 10 could also improve the battery life and performance of the Apple Watch.
tvOS 17 could enhance the entertainment experience on the Apple TV, such as adding support for spatial audio with AirPods Pro and AirPods Max, enabling picture-in-picture mode for watching multiple videos at once, and integrating with Apple Music and Apple Podcasts. tvOS 17 could also support gaming controllers and accessories, as well as new games and services for Apple Arcade.
Anticipation
WWDC 2023 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and significant events in Apple’s history. With a possible debut of the Apple VR headset, new Macs with Apple silicon chips, and software updates across all platforms, Apple is ready to showcase its vision for the future of technology. Whether you’re a developer, a fan, or a curious observer, you won’t want to miss WWDC 2023.
