Apple announces iOS 12 with a focus on managing screen time

Apple revealed all the software updates and zero hardware today at their World Wide Developer’s Conference WWDC.

While the company played up expected new features to excite and delight users like new mEmoji, AR functionality as well as even better camera and photos functionality, the key reveals were about managing screen time.

Following in the stead of Google who announced features last month to help track and manage smartphone use and screen time, iOS 12 will  similarly generate activity reports for time spent on apps, websites or social media. Ideal for parents managing their young ones’ iPad or gaming time, these metrics also serve to give a realistic picture of our online and smartphone addictions.

Also improved are the Do Not Disturb function on iOS devices that help people stay in the moment and focus on work and class as well as family time like dinner or a date. Notifications, which have become the bane of almost all smartphone users, can now be managed on a granular level and will be tied to time as well as to location constraints.

iOS 12 comes this fall but will be available as a public beta for intrepid users. Developers can get their hands on the latest build starting today.

Microsoft launches Windows Phone 8.1 for developers

Windows Phone 8.1 is now available for developers. It features the biggest update in look and functionality to Windows Phone since Windows Phone 7 launched and includes the new Cortana Intelligent Personal Assistant which is said to encompass the entire user experience. Unfortunately, Cortana is a US-only feature for now. Also new is an Action Centre used to navigate notifications better and also an improved start screen tiled interface.

Registered Microsoft developers can get a taste of the future of Windows Phone starting today.