WWDC

The big keyboard refinements in iOS 9

Timothy Reavis ∙ Updated April 18, 2018

During its WWDC presentation today, Apple introduced several new enhancements for its keyboard in iOS on iPhone and iPad. These changes include a redesigned shift key for distinguishing capital letters, lowercase, and caps lock. Additionally, key lettering now switches between upper and lowercase depending on which variation of a letter will be typed, which is another tool Apple is using to more clearly define what letter case mode the shift key is in, and adds ShowCase to the list of jailbreak tweaks Apple has turned into stock features with iOS 9.

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Watch the WWDC 2015 keynote now

Cody Lee ∙ Updated January 28, 2019

Folks who missed Apple’s WWDC keynote this morning, or would just like to watch it again, will be happy to hear that Apple has posted the full video online for your streaming pleasure. Obviously you can read everything you need to know about today’s event right here on iDB, but if you have the time, the video is worth watching.

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Square previews new contactless card reader with Apple Pay compatibility

Christian Zibreg ∙ Updated January 2, 2018

Square, a mobile payment startup founded by Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey, received an important mention during this morning's Worldwide Developers Conference keynote talk.

In going through a laundry list of new Apple Pay features, an Apple executive said even more small businesses will be able to accept Apple Pay using a new contactless card reader by Square which plays nice with Apple Pay.

Soon after the even has wrapped up, Square followed up with additional details about the forthcoming device.

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How Low Power Mode works in iOS 9

Cody Lee ∙ Updated April 18, 2018

One of the more significant new features in iOS 9 Apple mentioned during its keynote today is called "Low Power Mode." Similar to Power Reserve on the Apple Watch, this feature is designed to extend the battery life of your device.

First it should be noted that because of the under-the-hood improvements in iOS 9, Apple says battery life for the average user will increase by up to one hour. If you need more, Lower Power Mode gives you up to 3 additional hours.

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iOS 9 includes a standalone iCloud Drive app

Cody Lee ∙ Updated June 12, 2018

Since Apple's WWDC keynote ended a few hours ago, we've installed the iOS 9 beta and begun digging for new stuff. Apple previewed a handful of the software's features at the event, but as usual, there are a number of additions and improvements it didn't talk about.

One of those features is a standalone iCloud Drive app. It's not immediately apparent, but while launching an app we received a pop-up asking us if we wanted to install it. We were also able to access it via the Settings app iCloud > iCloud Drive > Show on Home Screen.

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Activation Lock coming to Apple Watch this fall with watchOS 2 software update

Christian Zibreg ∙ June 8, 2015

Activation Lock, Apple's theft-deterrent feature available on iPhone, iPod touch and iPad devices running iOS 7 or later, will be available on the Apple Watch this fall, courtesy of the free watchOS 2 software update announced earlier this morning during the Worldwide Developers Conference keynote talk.

It was previously discovered that the Apple Watch lacks this necessary security feature to dissuade thieves due to the limitations in its software and its dependency on iPhone for network connectivity.

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Apple reveals new ‘Move to iOS’ app for Android switchers

Christian Zibreg ∙ Updated October 2, 2017

To make life easier for people looking to switch to an iPhone and iOS 9 over from an Android device, Apple will be providing a dedicated iPhone and iPad application called 'Move to iOS'.

Yet to be released in the App Store, Move to iOS was designed to simplify the process of transferring user data securely from an Android phone or tablet to a new iPhone or iPad.

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OS X El Capitan and iOS 9 developer betas now available for download

Cody Lee ∙ Updated April 18, 2018

Apple has just seeded the first beta versions of OS X El Capitan and iOS 9. Registered iOS and Mac developers can log into Developer Center to access the betas, as well as release notes and other info. Apple says iOS 9 will be compatible with the same devices as iOS 8, so devices with A5 chips and newer should work.

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Apple Music available on June 30 for $9.99/month with 3-month free trial

Cody Lee ∙ June 8, 2015

Apple rounded up its WWDC 2015 keynote with a 'one more thing' announcement for Apple Music. The service will incorporate streaming music, 24/7 radio stations, and a new 'Connect' feature that will allow musicians to connect with their fans.

For those excited to try out the service, Apple says that it will be available on June 30th. As run-up reports predicted, it'll come with a 3-month free trial and cost $9.99 per month after that. There will also be a family plan for multiple users, for $14.99 per month.

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watchOS 2 beta available to developers today, public launch this fall

Cody Lee ∙ Updated April 18, 2018

Apple just got done offering up a preview of the next major version of watchOS, and it has a ton of new features. Native third-party apps, support for third-party complications, new Watch Face customization options, HomeKit support and audio playback support, to name a few.

Saying that this is a major improvement over current Apple Watch software would be an understatement. So the question on everyone's mind now is: when is it going to be available? Apple says that a beta will be available to developers today, and it'll be released to the public this fall.

We are really looking forward to checking out watchOS 2.

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