Apple is revealing details about its new operating system, iOS 11, which will include “hundreds of new features” for the iPhone 8 that’s expected to be released later this year.
The company gave a preview of the major upgrades coming to new and many existing iPhones in just a few months.
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Big changes coming with Apple’s iOS 11
Developers are currently previewing iOS 11 and a public beta program will start later this month. iOS will be available this fall as a free software update for users of the following devices:
- iPhone 5s and later
- All iPad Air and iPad Pro models
- iPad 5th generation
- iPad mini 2 and later
- iPod touch 6th generation
There’s been a lot of buzz about ARKit, an augmented reality platform for developers to build apps that let iPhone and iPad users place virtual content on top of real-world scenes.
We’ll have to see what developers come up with, but there are plenty more things to look forward to!
Use Messages to pay friends and family: With iOS 11, you can use Apple Pay with your credit or debit card to send money (or request it) right through Messages.
Indoor maps and lane guidance: Getting around will be easier with indoor maps of major airports and shopping centers, plus lane guidance so you don’t miss another exit.
Do Not Disturb while driving: Your iPhone can detect when you may be driving and automatically silence notifications.
Take even better photos:
- Portrait Mode images can be taken with optical image stabilization, True Tone flash and HDR
- Live Photos are more expressive with new Loop and Bounce effects that create continuous video loops
- High Efficiency Image File Format (HEIF) reduces the file size of every photo taken with iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus
Siri becomes more helpful: With a new, more natural voice, Siri will translate English words and phrases into Chinese, French, German, Italian or Spanish.
Type with one hand easily: When you select the one-handed typing feature, the keys will instantly move closer to your thumb.
New App Store: The App Store gets a redesign to make discovering apps easier. Users will see daily stories by experts, a dedicated Games tab and lists for all sorts of apps.
We can’t forget about the iPad!
Apple says iOS 11 is the “biggest software release ever for iPad.” Top features include an improved dock, new Files app and drag-and-drop support for all your multitasking needs.
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