Apple’s WWDC 2021 starts from 7 June.
Apple used its spring event this year to announce the new M1 iPad Pro, a new M1-powered iMac, airTags, and a purple iPhone 12. Soon we’ll learn about all the new things Apple will make those gadgets capable of doing with its forthcoming free software updates. The tech giant plans to hold its all-digital Worldwide Developers Conference, or WWDC, online from June 7-11. The keynote address, likely led by CEO Tim Cook, will start at 10 AM, PT on 7 June. Fans and developers alike will be able to watch online for free.
Last year, Apple announced a major change for its Mac computers, kicking off a transition from their being powered by Intel-made chips to being juiced by chips designed by Apple’s in-house team. That group’s been building chips to power iPhones and iPads for more than a decade, and now Apple says those chips are capable enough to power computers too. So far, the new computers powered by the new M1 chip have received positive reviews for their long battery life and cooler feel. Despite the initially positive reception, industry watchers are anxious to see how those chips will power more performance-heavy computers. Apple could also use the event to announce its next-gen M2 chips.
We could also learn more about the next version of MacOS, but the biggest announcement out of the event will likely be iOS 15 and iPadOS 15, the latest annual update to the company’s software for iPhones and iPads. This time around, the software update, which is usually free and released alongside new iPhones in the fall, is rumored to change additional default apps, include new ways to handle app notifications, and make its new small-app home screen widgets more interactive. (Currently they update data, but typically a tap brings you into the app instead of letting you interact just through the widget.)
Apple’s digital events are fast-paced and slickly produced. WWDC also tends to be a little nerdier and sillier, with Apple making jokes about its wacky marketing team coming up with names for its software. Apple also tends to make fun of software head Craig Federighi’s hair.
Want to watch WWDC 2021 from the comfort of your own home? Apple typically hosts a Livestream of its Monday keynote on its website. There will likely be a live feed on Apple’s YouTube channel. Apple will stream sessions throughout the week free for all developers. CNET will be reporting on WWDC, so check back for news and analysis throughout the show.
