Apple all set to unveil the new version of its highly anticipated operating system iOS 14. The tech giant is expected to host an online developer event in June, where it will highlight the iOS 14 features that will be integrated into the upcoming iPhone 12 and iPhone 9 / iPhone SE2.
Meanwhile, there are several rumors about the new features of iOS 14. Early evidence suggests that this year's iOS update will bring some unprecedented features.
Here's a collection of news and possible scenarios for the features we'll see in iOS 14.
Augmented Reality (AR) Mode
A recently leaked piece of code has shown that Apple is planning to bring a number of augmented reality features this year. An AR app called “Gobi” is in the works and, according to the code, will help users “get more information about the world around them.”.
There are rumors that Apple's AR app will be integrated into Apple Stores and Starbucks . The app will allow users to get more information about a product in an Apple Store by pointing it at it with their phone 's camera .
Additionally, Apple is expected to release the Apple AR Glasses sometime next year.
New app display screen
Another report based on leaked code suggests that Apple is planning to introduce a new screen where apps will be displayed alphabetically. The new List-View feature of iOS 14 will also give users the ability to sort apps with different options. For example, you can sort apps by frequency of use, apps for which you have unread notifications, and more.
Apple will also integrate Siri suggestions into this display to make it easier for users to access apps. For example, Siri could suggest opening the Starbucks app when you enter a Starbucks store or the Music app when you arrive at your gym.
Built-in call recording feature
A recent report revealed that iOS 14 may include a built-in call recording feature that is already present in many Android skins like OxygenOS. However, it was later revealed that the call recording feature is for internal bug fixing and may not be available to users.
Ability to use applications without downloading
An early version of iOS 14 revealed a feature called “Clips” that doesn’t require you to download an app to use it. For example, you can watch a YouTube video without downloading the app with the “Clips” feature.
Apple Pencil function
Apple is reportedly planning to introduce a new PencilKit that will allow users to fill in text fields using the Apple Pencil. Imagine writing a message using the Apple Pencil and sending it like a regular text message.
Ability to add third-party applications as default
iOS 14 is said to have the ability to add third-party apps as default. With this feature, you can set Google Chrome as your default browser and Gmail as the default email app on your iPhone.
This decision is likely a result of complaints filed against the company for providing an unfair advantage in its native applications.
Support for third-party wallpapers
If you're a fan of custom wallpaper, this could be one of the best features of iOS 14 for you. Apple plans to allow third-party wallpaper packs in the phone's settings.
New accessibility features
Apple may add new accessibility features, such as sound recognition for doorbells, fire alarms, and more for hearing-impaired users. Additionally, Apple is speculated to add a feature where the camera can detect motion and make recommendations for people with vision impairments.
New iMessage features
Apple is planning to introduce a series of features to iMessage to make it more user-friendly. You can check out the following new iMessage features in iOS 14:
Mention your contacts
iOS 14 will bring a Slack- for tagging your contacts in messages. Using this feature, you can address a message to one person in a group conversation. Also, if someone mentions you, you will receive a notification about the message even if you have muted the conversation.
Mark as unread message
With iOS 14, you'll be able to mark iMessage as unread, remember important messages, and flag them. It'll be similar to features available in Gmail and WhatsApp.
Delete a sent iMessage
This is perhaps one of the most useful features of iOS 14 for iMessage. Apple will offer a feature to recall a sent iMessage. However, the fact that you have deleted a message will be visible to both the sender and the recipient of the conversation.
Native app improvements
As it does every two years, Apple will bring a slew of improvements to its native apps. Rumor has it that the company is planning to bring upgrades to the Health app with a new sleep tracking feature that will be available on the next-generation Apple Watch.
Additionally, we could see some new features in Apple Maps, HomeKit, and Find My apps.
System-wide mouse cursor support
Apple introduced a redesigned mouse system on the iPad Pro to bridge the gap between an iPad and a computer. Along similar lines, we could see iOS 14 bring system-wide support for the mouse cursor. In iOS 13, Apple added support for a cursor, but it was hidden in the accessibility settings.
iPhones compatible with iOS 14
Last year, Apple surprised everyone by making iOS 13 compatible with devices as old as the iPhone SE, which was released in 2016. This year, we expect Apple to make iOS 14 compatible with the following iPhones:
iPhone 7
iPhone 7 Plus
iPhone 8
iPhone 8 Plus
iPhone X
iPhone XR
iPhone XS
iPhone XS Max
iPhone 11
iPhone 11 Pro
iPhone 11 Pro Max
iOS 14 release date
Apple has already announced the date for its annual developer conference. WWDC 2020 will take place on June 22 and will be an online event this year due to Covid-19. We expect the company to release the iOS 14 beta in the days immediately following WWDC 2020.
It's likely that we'll see the iOS 14 public Beta released sometime in August. iOS 14 will officially launch in the fall at Apple's traditional event, where the iPhone 12-series is expected to be released.
