What you should know
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- iOS 18 is set to introduce major updates, including new AI features and a revamped Siri, with a preview expected at WWDC 2024.
- Enhancements to accessibility features are anticipated, aimed at users with vision, mobility, hearing, speech, and cognitive needs, and accessible through the Accessibility app.
- Among the new accessibility features, Personal Voice will use AI to record and replicate a user’s voice for future use if they lose the ability to speak.
- Another notable addition is Voice Shortcuts, allowing users to activate accessibility features without a wake phrase, and system-wide font size control will be implemented.
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Full Story
Oh boy, iOS 18 is shaping up to be a game-changer for Apple, huh? It’s like they’re throwing everything but the kitchen sink into this update. New AI goodies, including a revamped Siri, are on the horizon. And let me tell ya, iPhone enthusiasts are practically marking days off their calendars until June. That’s when Apple’s set to give us a sneak peek at iOS 18 during WWDC 2024.
But wait, there’s more. We’re not just talking about fancy AI tweaks. The update’s also putting a spotlight on accessibility. You know, those crucial features that make tech usable for everyone, regardless of their “vision, mobility, hearing, speech, and cognitive needs.” These gems are nestled within the Accessibility app.
So, I stumbled upon some chatter on MacRumors. They’ve been chatting up industry insiders who’ve spilled the beans on some upcoming accessibility features in iOS 18. Apparently, Apple usually lets some details slip before WWDC. Seems like they’re nearly done cooking up these updates, which might explain the leaks.
Now, onto the juicy bits. There’s this thing called Personal Voice. It’s pretty wild. Using AI, it records your voice so it can be used if, heaven forbid, you lose the ability to speak. Then there’s Voice Shortcuts. Think of it as Siri Shortcuts without needing to say “Hey Siri” first. It’s rumored to play nice with features like VoiceOver and Voice Control, among others. VoiceOver reads out iPhone content, while Voice Control listens to your voice commands for various actions.
Another tweak in the pipeline is system-wide font size control. As it stands, app font sizes can be a bit of a mixed bag, with some apps playing ball and others, well, not so much. Apple’s looking to standardize this across the board with iOS 18.
Oh, and remember Personal Voice for Live Speech? After a 15-minute “training” session with frequently used phrases, it crafts a digital twin of your voice. It’s a lifeline for those facing conditions that could rob them of their speech, allowing them to “speak” even after losing their natural ability.
So, when’s all this goodness dropping? If the stars align, we’re looking at a September release for iOS 18. Just in time to give our iPhones a fresh coat of digital paint. Can’t wait!
