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Asked on 06/19/2025
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Apple's WWDC sessions have introduced several updates and best practices for implementing search functionality in apps across different platforms. Here are some highlights from the sessions:
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UIKit Apps: In the session "Build a UIKit app with the new design," it was discussed how iOS 26 provides a more integrated search experience. On iPhone, the search bar can automatically move to the toolbar, making it easily accessible. On iPad, the search bar can be placed at the trailing edge of the navigation bar, following the macOS toolbar pattern. This session also covers how to enable search in tab bar controllers and split views. For more details, you can refer to the Search section of this session.
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SwiftUI Apps: The session "Build a SwiftUI app with the new design" explains how to implement search in multi-tab apps, where a dedicated search page can be used. The search field can be placed at the bottom of the screen on iPhone for ergonomic access, and at the top trailing position on iPad and Mac. This session also discusses the use of the
searchable
modifier to integrate search functionality. You can find more information in the Search section of this session. -
Core Spotlight: In "Support semantic search with Core Spotlight," the focus is on enhancing search capabilities using semantic search, which allows for more natural language queries. This session covers how to build a full search experience, including providing content to the search index and retrieving results and suggestions. For more insights, check out the Results and suggestions section.
These sessions provide a comprehensive overview of how to implement and enhance search functionality in your apps using the latest tools and design patterns introduced by Apple.

Build a UIKit app with the new design
Update your UIKit app to take full advantage of the new design system. We’ll dive into key changes to tab views, split views, bars, presentations, search, and controls, and show you how to use Liquid Glass in your custom UI. To get the most out of this video, we recommend first watching “Get to know the new design system” for general design guidance.

SwiftData: Dive into inheritance and schema migration
Discover how to use class inheritance to model your data. Learn how to optimize queries and seamlessly migrate your app’s data to use inheritance. Explore subclassing for building model graphs, crafting efficient fetches and queries, and implementing robust schema migrations. Understand how to use Observable and persistent history for efficient change tracking.

Support semantic search with Core Spotlight
Learn how to provide semantic search results in your app using Core Spotlight. Understand how to make your app’s content available in the user’s private, on-device index so people can search for items using natural language. We’ll also share how to optimize your app’s performance by scheduling indexing activities. To get the most out of this session, we recommend first checking out Core Spotlight documentation on the Apple Developer website.