With the potential release of an iPhone 8 coming in September, there’s no doubt that Apple is working hard to get iOS 11, ready. The next version of its ever popular mobile operating system, one which will offer many updates and upgrades. Here’s what the rumor mill, and we think we know about it so far.
iOS 11 Rumors
With Apple’s annual World Wide Developer Conference fast approaching its June start date. The iOS loving public is watching and waiting for Apple to reveal what iOS 11 will offer. Previously, when we’ve talked about the OS, we’ve discussed what we’d like to see. However, this time, we’re not going to talk about a possible Dark Mode, Guest Mode, Improved Voicemail, and Continuity features. Instead, we’ll focus on what may actually make it for iPhone and iPad users.
Siri with a New Voice and Features
Siri’s voice hasn’t significantly changed since 2011 when she first made an appearance on the iPhone 4s. Rumors now suggest Apple has teamed up with a team based in Cambridge U.K to change this. That could mean that a 2017 update to the digital assistant brings with it a more natural sounding voice.
Additionally, it’s no secret that Apple’s assistant has been left behind technologically by companies such as Amazon and Google. However, that could be about to change; new rumors point to an enhanced Siri experience coming with iOS 11. As for what this means, the rumors are not so clear, maybe better third-party integration, meaning you could order food. Maybe book a table at a restaurant, or even buy tickets.
FaceTime Group Video Calls
Imagine iOS 11 with no FaceTime group video calls feature? This was the disappointment that iOS 10 users had to contend with, compared to the likes of Skype and Google Hangouts users who have it. This year, however, it’s being suggested that FaceTime will get its own group video chat feature. One that will propel it into the mainstream, and keep its users happy.
No Support for 32-Bit Apps
This next feature or removal of a feature of iOS would make thousands of apps on the App Store obsolete; you can learn how to find out here. This lack of support for older apps and devices has been indicated as accurate in the recent version of Apple’s firmware like iOS 10.3.
Why is Apple doing this? This is nothing new; the Cupertino-based outfit has been warning app developers that this will happen since 2013. Back when the first 64-bit iPhone 5S launched, now developers have about 6-months to make their apps compatible. However, the prediction is that around 8% of App Store apps will become only usable on older 32-bit devices.
Release Date
Last year iOS 10 was released alongside, or within, depends on your point of view. The iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus, in September. However, as we mentioned earlier Apple usually allows a preview of what may be at its World Wide Developer Conference. So, we do not expect this release timeline to change for 2017.
However, if recent reports that Apple is struggling to manufacture enough iPhone 8‘s in time for September is accurate. This could mean that along with the handset; iOS 11 has a later release date, we’re not sure when that may be. Although, reports have suggested either October or November.
