Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) iOS 10, the newest update for iPhones and iPads, will be available this coming fall. Developers have thrown their energy into overhauling two main components of these devices: text communication and voice-activated commands through Siri. By developing their messenger application, Apple hopes to compete with more widely-used applications, such as Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp, the latter of which is also owned by Facebook (NASDAQ: FB).
The changes to the iOS messenger (iMessage) are substantial and draw from a wealth of other popular applications: the ability to draw on photos the user has taken, for example, is a feature new to the iOS system, but one that has existed previously in Snapchat (NYSE:SNAP) and in Facebook, though the feature through the Messenger app is less refined. Other new iOS updates, such as having the app store accessible in the messaging application, larger emojis, and and the incorporation of "stickers" and .gifs are clearly meant to parallel features that were already offered not only through Facebook Messenger, but other popular applications such as WeChat. Apple, however, has taken things one step farther than its competitors, offering users the chance to send hand-written notes, to automatically switch words to emojis, and to even send an animated clip of their heartbeat. The company is striving to make its products "all encompassing" as other messaging applications seem to be.
Apple has also launched a tremendous overhaul of Siri, its voice-operated technological assistant. Siri will now be able to complete tasks through applications not produced by Apple; for example, one could order a ride through Lyft or Uber, send a message through WeChat, purchase tickets, and so on. The program will also be expanded to encompass Apple TVs, allowing the user to locate their show of choice without the use of a remote. However, while the new, updated Siri has a lot of potential, the older model has gained a bit of an infamous reputation for its inability to either perform simple tasks or to comprehend the user's commands. Many are unsure whether the voice-to-text technology that would be required for Siri to process and implement these tasks is truly where it needs to be for these functions to operate smoothly; no one wants to send a slew of texts or order a car service by mistake. Should Siri live up to our expectations, the implications about the advancement of hands-free technology and the increased accessibility of Apple devices for individuals with disabilities, such as visual impairments, would be enormous.
While many seem excited about Apple's new updates, there is a growing group of dissenters that has become increasingly frustrated with Apple's "surface-level" upgrades. The basic functionality of Apple products has been criticized with each update; users are dissatisfied with the software, the laughably short battery life, and the relatively minor updates that somehow warrant purchasing an entirely new phone. There were even rumors that the new iPhone would not provide a headphone jack, effectively preventing the user from watching videos or listening to music, though a feature this basic would always be provided with an Android or even a Windows phone. In addition, Apple has also failed to address one of the primary reasons an iPhone holder would use a third-party messaging application such as Facebook Messenger: these applications transcend the limitations that are placed upon users through their device. When an iPhone user, for example, starts a group text message, all Android users will receive that message individually, and are therefore unable to communicate with the rest of the group. Third-party messaging applications are also untraceable by one's cell phone company, and also do not require the added cost of a texting plan on one's monthly phone bill. While it will be interesting to see whether or not Apple's new update will be able to expand the appeal of iMessage, there is a genuine and valid concern that it is simply not innovative enough to court consumers.