Strippers
We’ve heard reports Apple plans a stability and maintenance release for OS X, and it appears the company has similar plans for iOS 9 as it sets the scene for the next iPhone to deliver 64-bit desktop class performance. (Read more about iPhone 7 here).
Two
9to5Mac imagines Apple may ship two versions of iOS 9, including one designed to run efficiently on older devices that should eliminate long-standing complaints the company attempts to force users to upgrade with each release.
Multiply
Ever wanted to share your iPad with someone else? iOS 9 promises to support multi-user logins, just like a Mac – though this may not be available on every device.
Split
Working on an iPad is challenging because you must flit between apps; in iOS 9, we hear Apple plans to support split-screen view (this was also anticipated last year).
Also read: 9 new Apple technologies for WWDC 2015
Maps
Apple has invested heavily in partnerships and technology acquisitions to improve Maps, and now we expect public transit information for some cities to appear in iOS 9. That could include indoor maps of subway stations in some cases.
San Francisco
Apple is expected to replace the existing Helvetica Neue font with the new San Francisco typeface first seen in Apple Watch – there is no good reason not to expect this in iOS 9. What other Watch features might become universal in iOS 9?
Protection
Apple wants to prevent access to protected system files on iOS devices to both prevent malware and put up a major obstacle against jailbreaking, according to reports. Expect additional security enhancements across the OS.
Force Touch
Force Touch is the three-button mouse on every Apple device. Surely this makes it an iOS 9 shoe-in? (Tap to wake, anybody?)
Message
iMessage will offer more granular (contact-based, rather than universally applied) controls over things like read receipts.
Collaboration
One recent Apple patent puts presence indicators inside iOS, so you will be able to see which of your contacts is available for a conversation at a glance (presumably if they permit it). That’s a boon for enterprise users.
Shift
Apple plans keyboard improvements, including improving the Shift key so you can use it more naturally.
Siri
It will be more accurate; offer more languages; support more queries and sport a new design to match its appearance on Apple Watch.
Beats
Is it an a la carte music streaming service with built-in music purchase options and enhanced playlist-based music discovery features for iOS and OS X?
Home
We know Apple’s smart home focused HomeKit solution promises wide support for multiple IoT standards. As these products head for release, Apple will introduce Home, an app to rule them all, at WWDC. This may require a hub of some kind (Apple TV, AirPort Express?).
Small
Apple will ensure everyone can install iOS 9 without the huge problems that marred last year’s release.
Beta
Get ready to beta test iOS 9 this summer.
One more thing
Thousands of Apple Watch apps are already available, but these need a tethered iPhone to work. Some may recall Apple’s 2014 promise that: “Starting later next year, developers will be able to create fully native apps for Apple Watch.” Now, I imagine the schedule may slip but it makes sense to expect more news on this at WWDC -- it’s a developer event after all.
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