WWDC 2023: Apple Vision Pro, iOS 17 and New Macs
WWDC 2023 introduces Apple Vision Pro, iOS 17, macOS Sonoma, a 15-inch MacBook Air and updated Mac Studio and Mac Pro models.
Apple has opened WWDC 2023 with its first major new product category in years. Apple Vision Pro is a headset-based spatial computer, joined by iOS 17, macOS Sonoma, a 15-inch MacBook Air and new Mac Studio and Mac Pro models.
Apple Vision Pro
Vision Pro places apps and media in the space around the wearer and is controlled with eyes, hands and voice. It runs a new operating system called visionOS, with familiar windows that can be moved and resized in a three-dimensional workspace.
Apple is presenting it for work, communication and entertainment, including large virtual displays, FaceTime and immersive video. It will arrive first in the United States early next year, with more countries later, so this is a preview rather than an immediate Australian purchase.
iOS 17 and iPadOS 17
iOS 17 adds personalised Contact Posters, Live Voicemail, improved Messages tools and a StandBy view for information while an iPhone is charging on its side. AirDrop gains NameDrop for sharing contact details by bringing devices together.
iPadOS 17 adds a more flexible Lock Screen, interactive widgets and improved PDF handling. The Health app also comes to iPad.
macOS Sonoma and watchOS 10
macOS Sonoma brings widgets to the desktop, video-conferencing tools and a Game Mode designed to prioritise performance. Safari gains profiles for separating work and personal browsing.
watchOS 10 redesigns many apps to use more of the screen and introduces the Smart Stack for quick information from the watch face.
A 15-inch MacBook Air
The new 15-inch MacBook Air uses the M2 chip and brings the Air’s thin, fanless design to a larger 15.3-inch display. It is aimed at people who want more screen space without moving to a heavier MacBook Pro.
Mac Studio is updated with M2 Max and M2 Ultra. Mac Pro also moves to M2 Ultra, completing the transition of Apple’s Mac line-up to Apple silicon.
What matters now
The software updates are due later this year, while the new Macs can be ordered now. Vision Pro is the long-term story, but the practical 2023 changes for most people will be iOS 17, macOS Sonoma and the new 15-inch MacBook Air.
Avoid early beta software on work devices. Anyone considering the new Mac Pro should compare it carefully with Mac Studio, because both use M2 Ultra and the Mac Pro mainly adds internal PCIe expansion.
