WWDC 2024 Major AI Announcements Expected on June 10th

WWDC 2024 kicks off at 1PM ET on June 10th, and it’s all about artificial intelligence — a ton of it.

Traditionally, Apple’s WWDC follows Google’s I/O and Microsoft’s Build developer conferences, and Apple has rarely needed to make responsive announcements. However, this year is different.

In the past month, Apple’s biggest competitors unveiled ambitious AI plans, with Google showcasing its latest Gemini models and Microsoft revealing robust Copilot features like Recall. Now, Apple must demonstrate that it can offer its customers valuable generative AI experiences.

Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference begins on Monday, June 10th, with a presentation at 1PM ET / 10AM PT. Here’s what to expect at Apple’s WWDC 2024 keynote.

AI, AI, and more AI

At WWDC, Apple is rumored to integrate AI into its operating systems, focusing on Siri. According to Bloomberg, Apple has revamped Siri using large language models to improve its understanding and responses. The new Siri will reportedly perform actions within Apple’s apps, making it much more capable.

Apple is expected to brand these AI features as “Apple Intelligence” and embed them throughout its apps, Bloomberg reports. Other AI features might include AI summaries of messages and webpages, real-time transcriptions in Notes and Voice Memos, and a custom emoji generator. The Photos app will reportedly use AI to remove objects and people from images.

A partnership with OpenAI

Apple has also explored third-party partnerships to enhance its AI capabilities. The company reportedly considered deals with Google and Anthropic but ultimately secured a partnership with OpenAI. OpenAI recently demonstrated a powerful assistant-like feature for ChatGPT, which is now expected to come to Apple’s devices, according to Bloomberg.

An upgrade for green bubbles

Apple is finally adopting Rich Communication Services (RCS) as the default fallback for iMessage, likely arriving with iOS 18. This means iPhone and Android users can send each other longer texts and higher-quality photos, ideally with end-to-end encryption.

Previously, Apple ignored Google’s pleas to adopt RCS and abandon the outdated, privacy-lacking SMS fallback. Regulatory pressure has prompted Apple to reconsider. While green bubbles will remain, they will be improved green bubbles.

A more customizable homescreen

Finally, Apple might allow users to arrange apps as they prefer. MacRumors reports that iOS 18 will let users leave blank spaces between apps. Bloomberg also reported that Apple will integrate a theming system, allowing users to recolor icons for consistency.

Plenty of app updates

With updates to the Mac, iPhone, iPad, and more, Apple is expected to unveil new and enhanced versions of its built-in apps. Rumors suggest the Calculator app will get a refresh and debut on the iPad, a password manager will launch across Apple’s platforms, and the Settings and Control Center screens will be redesigned.

Mac updates are coming… but maybe not at WWDC

Apple’s redesigned iPad Pro launched in May with a new AI-focused M4 chip, the first M-series chip to debut on an iPad rather than a Mac. While M4 chips are expected in Macs soon, there are no rumors of refreshed machines appearing at WWDC, so we may have to wait until later this year.