iOS 11 may require 64-bit apps
June 5th 2017
iOS 11 is the biggest software release ever for iPad, with powerful multitasking features, the Files app and more ways to use Apple Pencil. Augmented reality is coming to hundreds of millions of iOS devices with a new platform for developers to build apps that let users place virtual content on top of real-world scenes. CoreML gives developers on-device machine learning capabilities so they can easily make apps that will predict, learn and become more intelligent. Additional features include the ability to pay friends using Apple Pay, Do Not Disturb while driving to help users stay more focused on the road, even more intelligence and a new voice for Siri and new professional capabilities to Photos and Camera.
Apple seems to be gaining some momentum with AI/machine learning. iOS 10 I think made good steps, but not enough. It looks like iOS 11 will take some strides. Siri at least appears to be getting smarter. Improved voice with contextual responses. Also, Siri appears to be getting smarter about interactions. Siri also appears to be getting deeper integration across apps, which should be a nice improvement. Lastly, I like how Siri will be synced across all devices so you'll have a single Siri to deal with.
Messages will move to the cloud, which should hopefully address sync issues between devices. Even better, by being in the cloud you can now delete across all devices.
Apple pay is coming for person to person payments. This looks slick using Messages to send/receive money. I'm wondering if there will be fees involved? Apple also looks to be encouraging people to store their funds in Apple credit, but they can transfer to their bank account.
The new Control Center looks slick. It consolidates all controls into a sort of remote. 3D Touch open controls for a larger interface.
The new Driving Mode is interesting. We'll have to see how that works. It may be a nuisance having to toggle it off when you're a passenger. I wonder too how easily to transitions after you're out of the car, especially if you're not linked to Bluetooth.