It’s that time of year where iPhone owners discover the new features landing on their smartphones this fall.
Apple kicks off WWDC Monday with a keynote address during which the tech giant is widely expected to share information on iOS 17, the next operating system for iPhones.
Apple typically reveals early details on its next iOS ahead of the launch of a new model of the iPhone in September.
During last year’s WWDC keynote, Apple announced iOS 16, rolling out features including customizable lock screens showing quick information like weather and news headlines. The company also unveiled a new MacBook Pro model.
Apple will also unveil system upgrades for other devices including Macs, iPads and the Apple Watch.
What time does WWDC start?
The conference begins with a keynote address starting at 1 p.m. ET.
How to watch WWDC keynote?
The keynote is available to watch through Apple’s website, or on the Apple TV app. In previous years, Apple has also streamed its keynote on YouTube.
More on Apple’s mixed reality headset
According to Bloomberg, Apple will roll out its headset combining augmented and virtual realities during the keynote. The device will be named either Reality Pro or XR Pro, said the report, and cost around $3,000.
The headset will support VR as well as offer a pass-through mode to add AR elements, said the report. The device is meant for tasks such as communication, watching videos or playing games, the report said.
What to expect at WWDC
The main purpose of the conference is to introduce developers to new versions of software for the iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch. Prepare to see not just iOS 17, but fresh versions of iPadOS, watchOS and macOS.
Although Apple typically reserves many of its big hardware announcements for its iPhone event in September, this year could be different. Monday could mark the debut of Apple’s long-rumored mixed reality headset.
What devices will be compatible with iOS 17?
The next iOS isn’t just for new iPhone owners. Like previous releases, iOS 17 will be available on multiple iPhone models released over the past couple years. Support for iOS 16 stretches all the way back to the iPhone 8, released in 2017. However, if you are still hanging on to an iPhone 8, it’s possible it gets cut out from this year’s release.
When will iOS 17 come out?
The keynote is typically when Apple not only unveils the next iOS but details on its launch. The arrival of iOS 17 is timed to the launch of the next iPhone, so the next update will likely debut in September a couple days before the new smartphone is available in stores.
Last year, Apple released iOS 16 on September 12, four days before the launch of iPhone 14.
What does WWDC stand for?
The annual Worldwide Developers Conference is a week-long gathering of developers of applications for Apple products including the iPhone, Mac, and iPad to connect with fellow developers and discover new tools for creating apps. The conference is free for all developers.
The conference had previously been hosted at a convention center in San Francisco before the COVID-19 pandemic transformed it to a virtual experience in 2020. This year, Apple will host a special in-person experience Monday at its Apple Park headquarters.
