WWDC 2020: What to Expect
June 20th, 2020
by David Bell
CEO at Gummicube, Inc.
WWDC, Apple’s annual event, is quickly approaching. While the event is normally an in-person and streamed experience, it has moved entirely online for digital events.
Each year, WWDC brings new announcements and technology that shake up apps and app development. With WWDC 2020 starting on Monday, it’s time to take a look and see what we can expect from the upcoming event.
New OS
Apple traditionally reveals new operating systems during WWDC. WWDC 2018 revealed iOS 12 and macOS Mojave, while WWDC 2019 revealed iOS, tvOS and iPadOS 13, as well as watchOS 6 and macOS Catalina.
Looking at past events, it’s reasonable to assume iOS 14 will be revealed at WWDC 2020. Beyond the consistent timing of these updates, iOS 14 leaks and test builds have already surfaced.
These suggest new AirTag item trackers, augmented reality features, accessibility tools and built-in website translators.
iOS 14 will likely be announced alongside new iPadOS, watchOS, tvOS and macOS releases, as has been the case in previous years. iPadOS updates frequently mirror those of iOS, while watchOS brings new features to the wearable device.
New Devices
Apple revealed the New iPhone SE in April, but there’s no word on the iPhone 12 yet. New iPhone models are typically revealed later in the year, such as the iPhone 11, 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max being revealed at Apple’s By Innovation Only event in September 2019.
While we will likely have to wait a few more months before getting the iPhone 12, there are reports of a new iMac device to be announced at WWDC.
Early reports also suggest that Apple will be transitioning the Mac lineup to custom ARM processors. It is likely that Apple will lay out the roadmap at WWDC rather than introduce a new computer with ARM processors immediately.
Sessions, Labs and Forums
While the announcements are exciting, WWDC also includes a wide array of sessions and labs for virtual attendees.
These include over 100 engineering sessions, designed to help developers “learn how to build the next generation of apps.” Videos will be posted each day at 10am PDT, and can be watched directly from the Apple Developer app and website.
Apple is also providing 1-on-1 Developer Labs, open to members of the Apple Developer Program, Apple Developer Enterprise Program or Swift Student Challenge winners. These will provide in-depth details for implementing features directly from Apple’s engineers, so that developers can design their apps to work seamlessly with Apple devices.
Additionally, Apple has recently updated its Developer Forums in advance of WWDC. The new feature tags are intended to enable conversations between developers, whether they’re seeking help for conference issues, discuss development and news or meet fellow developers.
Are You Ready?
WWDC 2020 will begin at 10am PDT on Monday, June 22. You can watch it streaming live from Apple’s website, and keep an eye on Gummicube for announcement coverage and its impact on App Store Optimization.
Want more information regarding App Store Optimization? Contact Gummicube and we’ll help get your strategy started.
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