What are the new user-facing features that iOS developers should be aware of to integrate into their apps?

Asked on 08/28/2024

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iOS developers should be aware of several new user-facing features introduced at WWDC 2024 to integrate into their apps:

  1. New Controls API: iOS 18 introduces a new Controls API that allows developers to create controls that users can add to the control center or assign to the action button on the iPhone 15 Pro. This enhances app engagement by making frequent tasks more accessible across the system. Platforms State of the Union

  2. App Icon Customization: Developers can now customize app icons and widgets to appear in light, dark, or tinted versions, ensuring a consistent visual experience across the home screen. Xcode supports these variants directly in the asset catalog. Platforms State of the Union

  3. UIKit Enhancements: iOS 18 brings several enhancements to UIKit, including improvements to transitions and animations, tab bars, and a new document launch experience. These updates aim to streamline the user interface and improve the overall user experience. What’s new in UIKit

  4. Enhanced Suggestions for Journaling Apps: iOS 18 introduces updates to journaling suggestions, including support for landscape orientation and new asset types like "State of Mind." These features help make journal entries more meaningful and visually appealing. Enhanced suggestions for your journaling app

  5. App Intents: Developers can elevate their app's core features using App Intents, allowing users to interact with app functionalities directly from the home screen, lock screen, or control center without needing to open the app. Bring your app’s core features to users with App Intents

These features provide developers with new ways to enhance user engagement and improve the overall app experience on iOS 18.