Apple Unveils Major Updates at WWDC 2017 Event
Key Takeaways
- Apple announced Amazon Prime Video integration for Apple TV and a redesigned watchOS 4 for Apple Watch
- MacOS High Sierra introduced with a new file system, and updated iMac, MacBook, and iMac Pro models launched
- The 10.5-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro went on sale, and Apple debuted the HomePod smart speaker priced at $349
Apple Reveals New Updates Across Devices at WWDC 2017
Apple's Worldwide Developer Conference in June 2017 brought a host of announcements across several of its product categories. The event featured software upgrades, new hardware options, and the launch of an entirely new product.
Apple TV and Watch
The conference opened with news that Amazon Prime Video would soon come to the Apple TV through the tvOS platform. Meanwhile, the Apple Watch received watchOS 4, which brought new watch faces, an improved Workout app, better integration with fitness devices, a redesigned Music app, and a fresh Siri interface with new animations.
MacOS and Mac Hardware
Mac users were treated to macOS High Sierra, the latest version of the desktop operating system. The update included a switch to the new Apple File System (APFS) for improved performance and reliability. The update was made available to developers immediately, with a public beta expected before the end of the month.
Alongside the software, Apple updated several Mac models. The 21-inch and 27-inch iMacs now featured brighter 5K displays, Intel Kaby Lake processors, up to 64GB of RAM, and faster SSDs. The 27-inch model also introduced a Fusion Drive option. The MacBook and MacBook Pro lines received Kaby Lake processors, quicker SSDs, and enhanced graphics, with the 13-inch MacBook Pro seeing a price reduction. Apple also previewed the new iMac Pro, which boasts superior cooling with a dual fan setup, up to 128GB of RAM, 4TB of SSD storage, Intel Xeon processors with up to 18 cores, and a powerful 16GB Radeon Vega GPU.
iPad Pro
Apple expanded its Pro lineup with new iPad Pro models in 10.5-inch and 12.9-inch sizes. The devices went on sale on June 5, priced at $649 for the 64GB model and $1,099 for the 512GB version. However, they shipped with iOS 10 and were scheduled to receive the iOS 11 update in the fall.
HomePod
In a surprise move, Apple debuted the HomePod, a smart speaker aimed at music enthusiasts. Standing under 7 inches tall, the HomePod features seven tweeters, a 4-inch Apple-designed woofer with automatic bass adjustment, and six microphones that respond to the “Hey Siri” command. The device analyzes songs to optimize sound quality. Priced at $349, the HomePod entered a market already dominated by cheaper competitors like Amazon Echo and Google Home.
