Updates will no longer slow down your device
Apple is often under fire for its updates’ tendency to slow down iOS. Late last year, Apple confirmed that iPhones with older batteries were being intentionally slowed down. But with iOS 12, Apple claims it is “doubling down on performance.” The company promises that the new software will quicken keyboard displays and camera and app launches.
Siri will get a makeover
The software update will also give Siri, Apple’s virtual assistant on iOS devices, a much-needed upgrade. A new feature, known as Shortcuts, is a useful way for Siri users to create custom commands, as well as interact with third party apps. Siri will have the ability to identify routine behavior and offer actions to assist you. For example, a shortcut can send an automated text to your spouse when you tell Siri that you’re “coming home from work.” Or, tell Siri to “order my coffee” and Siri will place your usual order via the Starbucks app.
Group FaceTime is finally here
It’s been a long time coming. Since the release of FaceTime in 2010, Apple has received frequent criticism for its lack of a group video message option. But with the launch of iOS 12, users can make group FaceTime calls with up to 32 people simultaneously! I’m not sure I even have 32 friends, but this is exciting news nonetheless! This update will allow you to seamlessly go from a group chat on iMessage directly to a group video call on FaceTime. This will definitely make planning your Friday night a whole lot easier.
Your lock screen will be much cleaner
If you hate receiving a bunch of individual notifications from the same app, you’re in luck! Now, notifications will be grouped on the lock screen based on apps, events and people.
The new Memoji is basically Animoji on steroids
iOS 11 debuted the animated emoji known as Animoji. Apple has now taken it a step further with the introduction of Memoji, which allows you to create your own personalized, animated avatar. Think of Snapchat’s Bitmoji feature combined with the face-tracking capabilities of Animoji. Your device’s camera will identify if you stick out your tongue or wink, and animate your Memoji to perform the same action.
Device overuse will be a thing of the past
Apple is introducing the Activity Report and App Limits features to give iOS users a little reality check and much-needed device rehab. With the Activity Report, users will be able to track exactly how much time they spend on each app in a day, week, month, etc. I’m not going to lie, I don’t think I’m ready to come to terms with how frequently I check Snapchat each day.
The App Limits feature functions as a personal babysitter by allowing the user set time limits on how long they can use an app a day. Apple will send a notification when your time is up. Parents will be happy to know that they can utilize this feature to monitor and limit screen time for their kids, though I’m not sure how well the kids will handle it.
What’s next?
Apple is set to delve into greater detail about iOS 12 during the conference’s next three days. The next version of Apple’s mobile operating system is set for release this fall, likely along with the next generations of iPhones and iPads, which should be introduced in September.