At Apple’s software conference, WWDC, Tim Cook and fellow executives revealed software updates for all of Apple’s products, iPhone, iPad, Mac computers, Apple Watch and Apple TV – with Cook saying the work "should lift humanity".
The annual refresh of the mobile operating system saw iOS 10 unveiled. The most prominent feature revolves around the Messages app, which has seen its interactivity expanded. Users will be able to replace words with emoji in a single tap, and send handwritten notes, while special "invisible ink" messages will appear when the screen is swiped, and animations can be added to a conversation that fill the entire screen.
The app has also been opened to developers for the first time so it can be used to complete financial transactions and other tasks. As part of the update to Apple’s desktop computer software, OS X was renamed macOS, with this year’s version named Sierra.
Siri, Apple’s voice-based virtual assistant, has been added to the Mac for the first time, as has the ability to pay using Apple Pay. An option to use the payment service will appear on websites, with confirmation requests sent to a user’s phone, where they can use their fingerprint to authorise them.
Mac users will also be able to use their Apple Watch to unlock a Mac when in close proximity to their laptop. Apple Music, the subscription-based streaming service launched at WWDC last year, was also given a redesign after many reported the app to be too confusing to use. A user’s existing music library has been pushed to the front of the app, with more playlist suggestions being offered by Apple.