Apple WWDC 2017: iOS 11 to Siri speaker, everything to be announced and new

Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2017 kicks off on Monday, June 5, in San Jose. The Cupertino-based technology giant traditionally announces software updates at this event every year, so this time around too, industry is expecting updates around iOS, macOS, watchOS and tvOS. But apart from software, Apple is also expected to unveil a new Siri-powered speaker alongside major hardware refresh for MacBooks and iPads. Here’s what we know so far.
MacBooks
Apple will likely refresh last year’s MacBook at the Keynote. The new models are expected to come with Intel 7th generation ‘Kaby Lake’ processors. What remains to be seen is, if Apple also refreshes the 12-inch MacBook and older MacBook Air as well. Most reports say only the specifications will be updated in the new MacBooks.
Siri-powered speaker
Apple is reportedly set to launch an all new Siri-powered speaker at WWDC 2017. which instead of just being a connected home device will also focus on speaker quality with ‘virtual surround sound’. It could very well be Apple’s answer to the Amazon Echo and Google Home. Reports suggest that the Siri speaker has already entered production.
iPads
Recently, four iPad models were spotted on a French regulatory website. Most rumours pointed out that Apple is going add another screen size to its iPad line. A 10.5-inch iPad Pro is expected to follow similar footprint as its 9.7-inch iPad, but with a new design and edge-to-edge display. Apple may also upgrade its 9.7-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro line-up at this event.
iOS 11
Apple is most likely to preview next version of iOS at the Keynote on June 5. Considering this time it will be 10th anniversary of the iPhone, there are rumours that Apple’s iOS update could come with a complete design overhaul. Some rumours suggest more sleek design for Notifications and a ‘dark mode’. Additionally, an enhanced feature-set for Siri is being seen as a given. We could also see updates to Apple Music, Maps, Photos, iMessage and more. The tablet version of iOS is rumoured to get multi-user login and expanded support for the Apple Pencil.
MacOS
While MacBook updates are most anticipated, there is nothing much known about MacOS update. One of the big rumour around the block is fixing iTunes in MacOS 10.13. Apple may also be looking to bridge the gap between macOS and iOS. We might see more unified applications that could smoothly operate between the two OS.
watchOS and tvOS
The rumours are very thin about the changes in watchOS and tvOS. We’ll mostly see improvements for both operating systems. If some of the rumours are correct, then Apple is more focused on making a unified ecosystem, where it could fit in its Siri-powered speaker as well. So do expect a lot more from Siri in watchOS and tvOS.