new uikit features

New Features in UIKit

At WWDC 2024, Apple introduced several new features and enhancements for UIKit in iOS 18. Here are the key updates:

1. Document Launch Experience:

   • Redesigned launch experience for document-based apps.
   • Full control over launch views and design.
   • First-class support for template document creation.
   • Improved browsing experience.

2. Tabs and Sidebar Updates:

   • Major updates to tabs and sidebar for a more integrated appearance.
   • New API to better describe app hierarchy to UITabBarController.
   • Changes made to UITab instances are reflected immediately.
   • Tab bars prefer filled glyphs, and sidebars prefer outline glyphs.

3. Fluid Transitions:

   • Support for new fluid transitions across the system to enhance user experience.

4. List Improvements:

   • Automatic appearance updates from the list environment trait.
   • New header and footer configurations.
   • Three new constructors for UIBackgroundConfiguration: list cell, list header, and list footer.

5. UIUpdateLink:

   • New in iOS 18, making it easier to implement complex animations requiring periodic UI updates.
   • Features automatic view tracking and low latency mode for drawing applications.
   • Better performance and battery efficiency.

6. SF Symbols Animations:

   • Expanded with new symbol animations.
   • Three new animation presets.

7. Apple Pencil Pro Integration:

   • Support for new features of Apple Pencil Pro, including the squeeze gesture for tool switching.
   • Updates to feedback generators.
   • UITouch and UIHoverGestureRecognizer provide barrel roll angle.
   • Squeeze gesture presents an undo slider for apps with undo support.

For more detailed information, you can watch the session What’s new in UIKit.

Relevant Sessions

• What’s new in UIKit
• Platforms State of the Union
• Elevate your tab and sidebar experience in iPadOS

Feel free to explore these sessions for a deeper dive into the new features and improvements in UIKit.