Cupertino-based technology major, Apple, is all set to kick off the annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2017 next week at 10:00 am PT (10:30 pm IST) on June 5. The event will conclude on June 9.
Unlike previous years, where keynote addresses used to be hosted at Moscone Center in San Francisco, this year's event will take place at McEnery Convention Center in San Jose, California. The company is expected to play host to a little over 5,000 programmers and Apple enthusiasts to announce new developments in terms software and hardware.
Also read: Mysterious Microsoft handset with new Windows Mobile OS under testing
Apple WWDC 2017: Top 5 announcements expected at annual developers conference
Apple iOS v11.0:
Like previous years, highlight of the WWDC 2017 will be the new Apple iOS v11.0. In addition to improvement in UI design, performance, enhanced Siri assistant and iMessage app, it is expected to come with a group calling feature, which the iDevice owners have long been asking for.
Apple is also expected to launch refreshed TVOS 11 and WatchOS, as well. The former is expected to bring support for Amazon and Vudu, whereas the latter is expected to get upgrade in terms of fitness tracking abilities (sleep tracking and glucose counter).
New MacBook Pro series:
Having faced backlash from consumers over the 2016 series MacBook's with disappointing hardware, Apple is expected to announce macOS 10.12-powered five new MacBook Pro models ranging in 13-inch and 15-inch sizes.
They are expected to be powered by Intel's faster and more efficient Kaby Lake CPU series, which is also known to extend battery life by several notches.
Glucose-level monitor assistant accessory:
Earlier in the year, a report emerged saying Tim Cook himself was testing a non-invasive glucose-level monitor and many believe that this health-tracking gadget will make its debut, or at least gets demoed for a later launch, like what Apple did with its first generation Watch series.
Read more: Tim Cook testing Apple's non-invasive glucose tracker prototype
New Siri smart speaker:
Apple is rumoured to announce the much awaited Siri speaker, which will take on Amazon Echo and Google Assistant-powered Home smart speaker.
Unlike rivals, Siri speaker will come with advanced virtual surround sound technology having Apple Music and other integrated features.
It is expected to double up as a Homekit hub, which allows users to remotely control smart home appliances such as window blinds, door locks and indoor lights.
Read more: New Siri speaker featuring virtual surround could be Apple's answer to Amazon Echo
New generation Apple iPad Pro:
Having refreshed generic 9.7-inch models in March this year, Apple is expected to launch new 12.9 iPad Pro series with Apple A10 chipset.
Other expected announcements include new Apple TV with 4K video support.
Keep an eye on this space for latest news on Apple products.
