Editor's Note: This article is being updated with new details as they’re announced. Refresh to see the latest version. Today, at its 2021 WWDC virtual event, Apple released the details of its new operating systems, including iOS 15.
Here are some of the most significant features for photographers and videographers.
iOS 15
Apple started its event out showcasing new and improved features for iOS 15, its next-generation mobile operating system. While Apple's improvements are far more comprehensive than what we'll cover here, here are the photo-related updates.
The first new detail Apple showed off is what it's referring to as 'Live Text. ' In essence, this new feature will use on-device machine learning to scan photographs and use optical character recognition (OCR) to pull phone numbers, names and other text from images, which can then be highlighted and selected like any other text. The feature supports seven different languages at launch.
In addition to text, on-device machine learning will also be able to recognize other objects in images and provide additional information within the Photos app and elsewhere. A few examples include the ability for iOS 15 to display more information about the breed of a dog or a type of flower in an image.
Photos Memories
Apple has also improved its 'Memories' feature in Photos app. Now, music from your Apple Music library can be played alongside your photos and videos. Also, a new 'Memory Mixes' feature will let you change the 'feel' of the montage to better fit the visuals. Apple says the feature will match music, speed and even image editing to match the 'Mix' you choose.
iPadOS 15
There weren't many photo-specific updates for iPadOS 15, but there have been a number of improvements that could help your overall workflow.
The new Widget layout on iPadOS 15. This screencap also includes the larger Photos app widget to highlight featured images. Click to enlarge.
The first improvement Apple showed off is an updated Widget experience on iPad. Now, just like on iOS, you can place widgets directly on your homescreen, rearranging them alongside your apps. With the larger displays, Apple has also added a new, larger Widget size, exclusive to iPads.
A look at the App Library. Click to enlarge.
Apple has also added the App Library to iPadOS 15, meaning you can hide your lesser-used apps behind an index of sorts. The App Library icon can also live permanently in the dock, making it easy to access all of your apps without having to switch through multiple homescreens.
Multitasking on the iPad has also been improved, with a new menu at the top that makes it easier to invoke Split Screen and decide what side you want the current app to be on. Until now, you had to drag and drop the window, tab or icon of the app you were using to one side or the other.
. dpreview.com2021-6-7 20:53
