We’ve just had a new WWDC for 2018, and as expected Apple has announced their latest operating system update, iOS 12. While this update is more focused on performance and durability enhancements, there are still several new features that make this a must download for most users. Let’s take a look at the best features iOS 12 has to offers.
It’s Faster
Probably the best feature about iOS 12, especially for those still using an older phone or tablet, is that it is faster. Apple has spent a lot of effort on performance for this release, so the new software should make devices feel more responsive.
According to Apple, iOS 12 will detect when your device needs increased performance and speed up the processor on demand. Apps should launch on average about 40% faster than they did under the previous version, iOS 11. One welcome change is that the Camera app will load about 70% faster now.
iOS 12 will be compatible with devices as far back as the 2013 iPhone 5s and original iPad Air, so a lot of different iPhones and iPads currently in use will soon seem like a snappier device.
FaceTime Group Calling
FaceTime calling supports groups under iOS 12. But it’s not limited to just one extra happy face to converse with since FaceTime will now support up to 32 simultaneous callers. Since it will be hard to keep track of that many people at a time, FaceTime will include a list of who’s on the call at the bottom of the screen.
When a caller is speaking, their tile will get larger on the screen. And you can select any single caller to be front and center with a quick double tap on their tile. You will even be able to use filters, stickers, and other embellishments with FaceTime in iOS 12.
FaceTime is also being integrated into Messages so it will be easy to turn a group chat into a group call.
Siri Features
Siri is gaining functionality under iOS 12, thanks to the inclusion of shortcuts. With Siri, shortcuts are a series of actions, like a macro, that can be assigned to a particular phrase. For example, you can have a relaxing shortcut that will dim the lights and play your favorite music when you ask Siri for it.
Advanced learning is also part of the new features for Siri with iOS 12. She can now suggest that you order your coffee in the morning if she learns that you normally drink it at that time. Siri can apply her new learning skills to your everyday actions, such as suggesting a contact to alert if you are running late for your meeting.
Photo Enhancements
Photos are getting several updates in iOS 12. It now includes search suggestions, which highlights key moments and places that the algorithms think you might be interested in viewing. Event tagging is also substantially increased, with over four million types that Photos can identify for your use.
The app now includes a For You tab that contains pictures and videos that were taken on the same day in past years, making it easy to do reflections on what was happening on this day previously. The tab also suggests photo effects that you might want to apply to get the most out of your photography.
But that’s not all of the new Photo enhancements under iOS 12. There are also sharing suggestions, which will suggest people with which you may want to share the photo. If a friend was at the same event, Photos will even suggest photos that they can share with you. In this way, you may get the view from the other side of the stage or stadium through shared photos with a friend.
New Voice Memo App
iOS 12 introduces a new Voice Memos app, which finally supports the iPad. The app features iCloud storage, which will keep all of your recordings in sync and available with all of your iPhones, iPads, and Macs. You will no longer be required to use a third party solution for this basic but convenient functionality.
Better Do Not Disturb
The Do Not Disturb function is being upgraded in iOS 12, with the option to hide notifications during your bedtime. No longer will the screen flash at night, leaving you to dwell on what the message could have been instead of nodding off to sleep.
You can decide when you want the enhanced Do Not Disturb to work, and even select a location. This way it can alert you while on a trip, but keep you blissfully unaware while sleeping in your own bed.
Improved CarPlay
CarPlay is not being left out of the iOS 12 update. It will now support third-party navigations apps, such as Google Maps and Waze. This lets the user pick their favorite navigation app instead of being limited to using only Apple Maps.
These are a few of the new features that iOS 12 will bring to your Apple devices, and you can find a full list on the Apple Website. But if you need your favorite iPhone or iPad repaired before you can enjoy everything iOS 12 has to offer, feel free to contact us or get a free estimate online.