WWDC 2021: iOS 15, macOS Monterey and Better Privacy
WWDC 2021 previews iOS 15, iPadOS 15, macOS Monterey and watchOS 8, with stronger FaceTime, Continuity and privacy features.
Apple has opened WWDC 2021 with updates designed to make its devices work together more smoothly. iOS 15, iPadOS 15, macOS Monterey and watchOS 8 add stronger communication, focus and privacy tools, with no new hardware announced in the keynote.
FaceTime and staying connected
FaceTime will gain spatial audio, voice isolation, grid view and shareable links that can be opened from Windows and Android browsers. SharePlay will let people watch video, listen to music or share a screen during a call.
Messages also gets better handling of shared photos and links, while a new Focus feature can filter notifications based on work, personal time or sleep.
iOS 15 and iPadOS 15
iOS 15 adds Live Text for recognising text in photos, redesigned notifications, improvements to Maps and a new Wallet capability for supported keys and identification. The Weather app and Safari are also being redesigned.
iPadOS 15 makes widgets available across the Home Screen, adds the App Library and improves multitasking controls. Quick Note offers a faster way to capture a note from any app.
macOS Monterey
Monterey brings Shortcuts to the Mac, AirPlay to Mac and a new Safari design. Universal Control is intended to let one keyboard and pointer move across a Mac and iPad, including dragging content between them.
The feature set is strongest for people already using several Apple devices. Businesses should still check app, printer and security compatibility before upgrading.
Privacy changes
Mail Privacy Protection can hide an IP address and reduce invisible email tracking. App Privacy Report will show how often apps use permissions and which outside services they contact.
Siri will process more requests on the device, while iCloud+ adds Private Relay, Hide My Email and expanded HomeKit Secure Video support. Some features will depend on region, language, hardware or subscription level.
Do not rush the beta
Developer betas are available now, with public betas planned for next month. The final releases are due later this year. Avoid beta software on devices used for client work, banking, authentication or anything else that needs to remain reliable.
This is a year of useful improvements rather than one dramatic redesign. Focus, FaceTime, Live Text, Universal Control and the privacy changes are likely to be the features people notice most.
