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Apple WWDC 2023 Reference Guide for Software Engineering Leaders

Get the 101 for the Apple WWDC 2023 event on June 5th – 9th, 2023!

Testlio works with iOS software engineering leaders to optimize their QA and QE testing, DevOps release workflows, and quality challenges. Our 1000s of crowdsourced and outsourced freelancers test on just about every device and OS imaginable.

That’s why we’re excited to share this handy reference guide with all the details for this year’s Apple WWDC. 

Enjoy!

Table of Contents

What is Apple WWDC?

Apple WWDC (Worldwide Developers Conference) is an annual event held by Apple Inc. that brings together developers from around the world to learn about the latest advancements in Apple technologies and to interact with Apple engineers and designers.

During the conference, Apple typically announces new software updates for its various platforms and provides developers with tools and resources to help them create innovative apps and services that take advantage of the latest features and capabilities of Apple’s operating systems and devices.

WWDC is a highly anticipated event for developers, tech enthusiasts, and journalists alike, as it often provides a glimpse into Apple’s future plans and product roadmap. The conference typically includes keynote presentations, technical sessions, and hands-on labs where attendees can work directly with Apple engineers to get help with their projects.

What does Apple WWDC do?

Apple WWDC provides a global venue for developers to learn about the latest Apple technologies and provide them with essential tools and resources to create apps and services that leverage newly announced capabilities.

During the conference, Apple typically announces new software updates for its various platforms and showcases its latest hardware products, providing developers with detailed technical information and best practices for integrating new features and technologies into their apps.

WWDC also features hands-on labs where developers can work directly with Apple engineers to get help with their projects and networking events where developers can meet and collaborate with other professionals in their field.

What are the 2023 dates for Apple WWDC?

The dates for the in-person and digital experience vary slightly: 

  • Digital : June 5 – 9th, 2023
  • In-person special all-day event at Apple Park in Cupertino, California – US: June 5th, 2023

Where is Apple WWDC 2023?

  • The in-person special all-day event will be held at Apple Park in Cupertino, California.
  • The online live streaming and on-demand sessions will be available on the Apple WWDC platform.

In what ways can I participate in the Apple WWDC 2023?

The conference’s online streaming is free of charge and can be accessed on the Apple WWDC website without prior registration.

Those interested in participating in the event’s in-person component had to submit a request by April 4th. Invitations were allocated through a random selection process, and successful participants were notified the following day. 

To submit a request, participants had to meet specific criteria, including being current members of the Apple Developer Program, Apple Entrepreneur Camp alumni, Swift Student Challenge winners from 2020 to 2022, or current members of the Apple Developer Enterprise Program.

How much does it cost to watch Apple WWDC 2023?

You can watch the conference free of charge.

How do I register for the Apple WWDC 2023 conference?

It’s not necessary to register to have access to the conference streaming. The link for the videos will be available on the Apple WWDC website.

Registration for the in-person event ended on April 4th.

Can anyone go to Apple WWDC?

Apple Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) is primarily targeted toward developers, software engineers, other technical professionals working with Apple technologies and platforms, and Apple enthusiasts.

Although the conference is open to anyone to watch online, its content is generally geared toward individuals interested in learning about the latest Apple technologies and tools. 

For those interested in attending the in-person component of the event, Apple required participants to submit a request to participate by April 4th. In addition, they had to meet specific eligibility criteria, such as being a member of the Apple Developer Program or winning the Swift Student Challenge.

Why should I watch Apple WWDC 2023?

You should watch Apple Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2023 if you’re interested to learn about the latest advancements in Apple technologies, platforms, and products.

During the conference, Apple typically announces its latest software updates for its various platforms, such as iOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS, and showcases its latest hardware products, such as iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches.

Watching the conference can provide valuable insights into new features and capabilities you can use in your personal or professional projects and how to use them to develop innovative apps and services. 

What to expect from Apple WWDC 2023?

Although the specific details of Apple WWDC 2023 have not been officially announced, we can make some educated guesses based on past events and a flurry of rumors from sites like Bloomberg, MacRumors, Gizmodo. The conference is likely to feature announcements and updates related to Apple’s operating systems, including iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS. These updates may bring new features, performance enhancements, and bug fixes to Apple devices. Additionally, it is expected that Apple will showcase new hardware products, such as the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch, and possibly unveil updates to existing hardware.

Some of the anticipated unveilings at WWDC 2023 include:

  1. Reality Headset: The introduction of a significant new product category for Apple, the mixed-reality headset. This device will come with an accompanying xrOS operating system and software development kit, demonstrating Apple’s future vision beyond iPhones and iPads. The focus will be on providing developers with tools and an onboard App Store to create apps and experiences for the headset, which has the potential to be a game-changer in the long run.
  2. New MacBooks: The announcement of new MacBook models, potentially including a larger 15-inch MacBook Air, an updated 13-inch MacBook Air, and a new 13-inch MacBook Pro. These devices may feature improved specifications and design elements to enhance the user experience.
  3. iOS 17, iPadOS 17, macOS 14: The introduction of updated versions of Apple’s operating systems for iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers. These updates are expected to bring various improvements, addressing user requests and refining the overall functionality and performance of Apple devices.
  4. Major watchOS 10 Update: Apple Watch users can anticipate a significant update to the watchOS operating system, potentially featuring an updated interface and introducing new features and functionalities to enhance the wearable device’s capabilities.

Rumors about WWDC originate from industry insiders, leaks, trademark filings, analysts, and journalists. However, it’s crucial to rely on official announcements from Apple during WWDC for accurate information about updates and products. as Apple is known for keeping its upcoming releases tightly under wraps until they are officially revealed at its events.

What is on Apple WWDC 2023 agenda?

The agenda for Apple WWDC 2023 has not been made public yet.

What were the highlights of the last five Apple WWDC conferences?

WWDC 2022:

  • Introduction of iOS 16, which includes new features like redesigned widgets, enhanced privacy controls, and improvements to FaceTime and Messages.
  • Announcement of macOS Monterey, which features Universal Control for seamless integration between Mac and iPad, and enhancements to Safari and Quick Notes.
  • Unveiling the new MacBook Air with the M2 chip, featuring improved performance and battery life.

WWDC 2021:

  • Introduction of iOS 15, which includes features like FaceTime enhancements, Focus mode, and improvements to Maps and Siri.
  • Announcement of macOS Monterey, which features updates to Safari and FaceTime, and the new Universal Control feature for seamless integration between Mac and iPad.
  • Introduction of watchOS 8, which includes new features like Mindfulness, Portraits watch face, and respiratory rate tracking.

WWDC 2020:

  • Introduction of iOS 14, which includes new features like App Library, widgets, and Picture-in-Picture.
  • Announcement of macOS Big Sur, which features a redesigned user interface, Safari and Messages enhancements, and privacy and security improvements.
  • Introduction of Apple Silicon, Apple’s new custom-designed processors for Macs.

WWDC 2019:

  • Introduction of iOS 13, which includes new features like Dark Mode, enhanced privacy controls, and a redesigned Photos app.
  • Announcement of iPadOS, a new operating system specifically designed for iPads, which includes features like desktop-class browsing and new multitasking capabilities.
  • Introduction of macOS Catalina, which features the new Music, TV, and Podcasts apps and Screen Time for Macs.

WWDC 2018:

  • Introduction of iOS 12, which includes new features like Screen Time, Grouped Notifications, and Memojis.
  • Announcement of macOS Mojave, which features Dark Mode, a redesigned Mac App Store, and Finder and Quick Look enhancements.
  • Introduction of watchOS 5, which includes new features like Activity Competitions, automatic workout detection, and the Walkie-Talkie app.
Apple WWDC 2022 keynote lecture

Six resources for Apple developers

  • iOS Developers – This community focuses on the development of apps for iOS devices such as the iPhone and iPad. Apple provides developers with tools such as Xcode, Swift, and Objective-C to create iOS apps. 
  • macOS Developers – This community focuses on the development of apps for macOS devices such as the MacBook and iMac. Apple provides developers with tools such as Xcode, Objective-C, and Swift to create macOS apps. 
  • watchOS Developers – This community focuses on the development of apps for Apple Watch. Apple provides developers with tools such as Xcode and Swift to create watchOS apps. 
  • tvOS Developers – This community focuses on the development of apps for Apple TV. Apple provides developers with tools such as Xcode and Swift to create tvOS apps. 
  • Swift Developers – This community focuses on the development of apps using the Swift programming language. Swift is an open-source programming language developed by Apple that is used to create apps for all of Apple’s platforms. 
  • ARKit Developers – This community focuses on the development of augmented reality (AR) apps using ARKit, a framework provided by Apple. ARKit allows developers to create AR experiences for iOS devices using features such as camera and motion sensors.

Top ten Apple influencers to follow on Twitter

  • Rene Ritchie – @reneritchie: Rene Ritchie is a well-known journalist and tech influencer who has been covering Apple for more than a decade. He is the Editor-in-Chief of iMore and his tweets provide insightful analysis and commentary on Apple news and products.
  • John Gruber – @gruber: John Gruber is the creator of the popular Apple blog, Daring Fireball. He is known for his thoughtful commentary and criticism on Apple-related topics, including software, hardware, and design.
  • Federico Viticci – @viticci: Federico Viticci is the founder and editor-in-chief of MacStories, a popular Apple news and app review website. His tweets often provide helpful tips and insights into Apple products and software.
  • Joanna Stern – @JoannaStern: Joanna Stern is a technology journalist and video producer for the Wall Street Journal. Her tweets cover a range of topics related to technology, including Apple news, product reviews, and consumer trends.
  • Matthew Panzarino – @panzer: Matthew Panzarino is the Editor-in-Chief of TechCrunch, a popular technology news website. He is also an Apple enthusiast and his tweets provide analysis and commentary on the latest Apple products and software.
  • Christina Warren – @film_girl: Christina Warren is a technology journalist and podcaster who covers Apple and other tech giants for various media outlets. Her tweets provide insightful commentary and analysis on the latest Apple news and products.
  • Harry McCracken – @harrymccracken: Harry McCracken is a technology journalist and the technology editor at Fast Company. He is known for his thoughtful analysis and commentary on the latest Apple news and products.
  • Mark Gurman – @markgurman: Mark Gurman is a well-known technology journalist who covers Apple for Bloomberg. He is known for breaking exclusive news about Apple products and software, and his tweets provide insights into his latest reporting.
  • Neil Cybart – @neilcybart: Neil Cybart is the founder and editor of Above Avalon, an Apple analysis website. He is known for his deep analysis and commentary on Apple’s financials, products, and strategy.
  • Serenity Caldwell – @settern: Serenity Caldwell is a former editor at iMore and a freelance technology writer. Her tweets cover a wide range of Apple-related topics, including product reviews, software updates, and industry trends.

Five publications that provide Apple WWDC 2023 updates

  • MacRumors – MacRumors is a website dedicated to Apple news, rumors, and product reviews. They provide extensive coverage of Apple events, including WWDC, with live updates, in-depth analysis, and commentary. 
  • 9to5Mac – 9to5Mac is a popular news and rumor website covering the latest Apple products and software. They provide up-to-the-minute coverage of Apple events, including live blogs, hands-on impressions, and reviews.
  • AppleInsider –  AppleInsider is a news and analysis website focused on Apple products, services, and software. They provide comprehensive coverage of Apple events, with live updates, keynote summaries, and expert analysis.
  • The Verge – The Verge is a popular technology news website that covers a wide range of topics, including Apple products and events. They provide extensive coverage of Apple events, including live blogs, hands-on impressions, and expert analysis.
  • iMore – iMore is a website dedicated to Apple news, how-tos, and product reviews. They provide coverage of Apple events, including live blogs, hands-on impressions, and expert analysis.

Seven helpful Mobile App Testing Resources

What is iOS Application Testing? 

iOS app testing is a form of software testing that combines manual and automated testing techniques to identify and report bugs and issues with Apple devices running the iOS operating system. 

Top 10 ways an iOS application testing service helps software engineering leaders

  1. Provide a single software testing platform for manual and automated software testing 
  2. Offer dozens of DevOps toolchain integrations to align all testing workflows
  3. Provide a dedicated engagement manager as part of a managed services offering
  4. Access to 1000s of highly vetted QA and QE freelancers for on-demand, full-time, or part-time testing
  5. The development, maintenance and execution of strategic test plans and automated test suites 
  6. Identify bugs and timely reports for easy bug triage before deploying AppStore updates 
  7. Localization testing (language, culture, currency, network connectivity) on real and racked devices
  8. 24/7 regression testing
  9. Payments testing
  10. Fused software testing to combine manual and automated more efficiently

Maximizing iOS: Tips for Users & Developers

How does Apple review new app releases before approving them for the AppStore?

When releasing a new app on the App Store, Apple follows a thorough review process to ensure that only high-quality and compliant applications reach the users. The process involves several steps:

  • App Submission: Developers submit their apps through the App Store Connect portal, providing essential information such as metadata, screenshots, descriptions, and binaries.
  • Initial Automated Checks: Apple’s system performs automated checks to verify technical requirements, adherence to guidelines, and compatibility with Apple devices.
  • Human Review: Apps that pass the automated checks undergo a human review by Apple’s app review team. Trained reviewers evaluate functionality, user interface, content, and guideline compliance.
    • App Store Guidelines: Apple maintains strict guidelines covering design, content, privacy, security, and legal compliance. The review team ensures adherence to these guidelines, requesting modifications or rejecting apps that violate them.
    • Testing and Compatibility: The review team tests the app on various devices and iOS versions to ensure stability, performance, and compatibility across Apple’s ecosystem.
    • App Content Review: Apple checks for offensive or inappropriate content, copyright infringement, and misleading information. Violations may lead to rejection or requests for changes.
    • Privacy and Security: User privacy and security are paramount for Apple. The review team assesses how the app handles user data, adheres to privacy guidelines, and implements necessary security measures.
  • App Approval or Rejection: Upon completing the review, Apple either approves the app for release or sends a rejection notice to the developer. Rejection notices typically provide specific reasons, allowing developers to address issues and resubmit the app.

The review process duration can vary, depending on factors like app complexity and submission volume, ranging from a few days to several weeks.

Common issues to avoid when submitting an app for review in the App Store

  • App Completeness: Ensure your app is complete, without crashes, broken links, placeholder content, or incomplete information. A trustworthy testing partner can help you with that.
  • Specific Documentation: Some apps require additional documentation for certain scenarios, such as apps for kids with third-party ads, medical hardware integration, or featuring third-party trademarks or copyrighted content.
  • Privacy Policy: Ensure your privacy policy clearly explains the data collected, its usage, data retention, user consent, and deletion policies. Verify that third parties handling user data offer the same level of protection.
  • Clear Data Access Requests: Clearly describe how your app will use user data when requesting access and include a purpose string in the app’s Info.plist file.
  • Accurate Screenshots: Use accurate screenshots that effectively communicate the app’s value and functionality, adhering to the guidelines.
  • User Interface: Design a clean, refined, user-friendly interface that meets Apple’s requirements.
  • Unique App Experience: Create engaging, functional, and feature-rich apps that take advantage of iOS capabilities rather than web clippings or content aggregators.
  • Avoid Repeated Submissions: Submitting similar apps repeatedly can delay the review process. Instead, combine apps thoughtfully into one for a better experience.
  • Honest App Representation: Ensure your app delivers on its advertised features and functionalities without misleading users.
  • Provide Lasting Value: Create apps with significant functionality and content that appeal to a broader user base, avoiding niche or limited-use apps.
  • Proper Entity Submission: Certain types of apps, especially those dealing with sensitive user information or highly regulated fields, must be submitted by the appropriate legal entity.

VoiceOver

By Helen Burge, Senior Accessibility Testing Manager

When using the screen reader VoiceOver, there is a setting for it to translate text in an image and describe images with nothing set by the developer.

For example, if you have a blind manager who receives expense requests with screenshots of receipts, despite your description helping, he could use VoiceOver to hear the text in the screenshot.

However helpful, these tools should not be solely relied on to describe images on web pages. Instead, their purpose is to assist in adding context as required.

  • Screenshot of VoiceOver tool
  • Screenshot of VoiceOver tool