Apple unveils iOS 17 with major communication app updates and a new journaling app
Apple has introduced its latest mobile operating system for the iPhone, iOS 17, at its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2023. The update brings new consumer-facing features, including updates to communication apps and a new journaling app. These features are expected to be released later this year for all iPhones.
Updates to Communication Apps
The Phone app has received its first update in a while. iOS 17 lets users create personalized contact posters that will show up when a contact calls them. Users can customize posters with typography and depth, with the contact’s name appearing behind their image. Third-party developers can take advantage of these posters with CallKit. The update also introduces live voicemails with real-time transcriptions, which could discreetly look at the phone during a meeting or for an unknown caller. FaceTime now allows users to leave video messages if they fail to answer a call. Messages also receives an update, with the introduction of search filters and a new arrow in unread conversations that allows users to catch up on missed messages. Apple will now automatically create transcriptions for voice messages.
AirDrop and Keyboard Updates
AirDrop has new features that allow iPhone users to share their contact information with other iPhone users using NameDrop, which works with the Apple Watch. iOS 17 also updates the keyboard, with autocorrect now more accurate and with a grammar check feature. Autocorrect predictions now appear inline as greyed-out text, and the user can easily change the prediction by pressing the spacebar.
The Journaling App
Apple is introducing a new journaling app called Journal, that uses on-device machine learning to create personalized suggestions around your photos, activities, location, music, workouts, and more. Developers can also use Journal to provide prompt suggestions from third-party app data.
StandBy
StandBy creates a new full-screen experience for the nightstand. When the phone is put down at night, users can see the time, the alarm, or personalize what appears on the screen. StandBy also allows the iPhone to be used as a dynamic photo slideshow device and a calendar for upcoming events.
Editorial & Advice
This new iOS update reflects Apple‘s continued focus on improving the user experience. The new communication app updates like real-time voicemail transcriptions and personalized contact posters are expected to make communication more convenient for users. Apple also seems to have put a lot of effort into improving the keyboard with accurate predictions and enhanced autocorrect, which will come in handy for those who type frequently.
Journaling has become popular in recent years, and Apple‘s latest app, Journal, using machine learning to create personalized suggestions, promises to be an excellent addition for those who love to journal. It’s also an indication of how technology can enhance otherwise low-tech habits.
It’s important to note that technology should not replace healthy habits and lifestyle choices. As with anything else, it’s about finding balance and moderation while using these technologies to enhance our lives.
<< photo by Caio >>
