Apple rolls out machine learning, augmented reality tools; previews iOS 13

Apple has made a slew of announcements for enterprise users at its annual Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) taking place in California, US. The announcements range from new tools for machine learning and augmented reality, to previewing the latest version of the iOS.

For its augmented reality user base, Apple announced that it has released the ARKit 3, Reality Composer — a new application that lets enterprise users create augmented-reality experiences. Additionally, RealityKit has been launched, which is a new high-level augmented reality framework for iOS users.

Through the AR Quick Look feature, Apple said users can now place 3D objects in the real world and the app supports models and scenes created in Reality Composer.

SwiftUI

In what Apple claims is a step towards developers building easy user interfaces, the tech giant announced the launch of the SwiftUI, a tool that helps build user interfaces for any Apple device based on using just one set of tools and APIs. “With a declarative Swift syntax that’s easy to read and write, SwiftUI works seamlessly with Xcode design tools to keep the code and design in sync,” the company said in a statement.

The user interface also supports Dynamic Type, Dark Mode, localisation and better accessibility for developers. “Code is instantly visible as a preview as you type, and any change you make to that preview immediately appears in your code,” the release said. Xcode also recompiles the developer changes instantly and inserts them into a running version of the app, which is available for editing at all times.

Machine learning for developers

Apple launched a set of tools for machine learning, which include Core ML 3, Create ML, A-Series chips for machine learning computing and a new Neural Engine.

Core ML3 supports advanced machine learning models while Create ML is a no-code software tool that allows building models on the Mac with zero code. What this means is that developers can create ML apps with no prior ML expertise required.

Preview of iOS 13

Apple also took the opportunity at the developers’ conference to preview the latest version of the iOS. The new operating system includes a Dark Mode and new methods to browse photos, sign in to apps and a new intuitive interface for maps. Apple claimed that the new version is faster and more responsive with optimisations that improve app launch, reduce download sizes and make Face ID faster.