Apple might be known for its devices–but the world arguably wouldn’t be the same without their innovative strides with the iPhone–but today, Apple shows off just how much it’s been looking at its program side with the official release of iOS 11. Although there are tons of features to enjoy, here are the best of the best to try out.
1. Do Not Disturb for safer driving
Based on vehicle movement or Bluetooth connections, iOS 11 automatically puts you in ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode while on the road. It can send an automatic reply if a message does come in so others know you can’t respond. I love the proactive approach and stance Apple is taking here on trying to put a stop to distracted driving and frankly, it could save lives.
2. Siri upgrades
Siri and I aren’t exactly at ‘bff status’ yet, but we’re getting there — she (or he, depending on your settings) has selective listening, which can be an aggravation at times. Needless to say, Apple has invested a lot into enhancing the overall Siri experience, including making her sound more like human speech. Siri also can now translate from English into several other languages and customize suggestion based on your device and app usage.
3. What’s up, Dock?
Sitting at the bottom of your screen, the new dock allows you to both launch and switch between apps and play with your windows. It’s much easier to work with more than one app at a time via Split View and Slide Over, and you can tweak what’s in the dock with simple drag and drop of apps and folders.
4. Camera bonuses
Looking to power up your Pokemon Go experience or just mess with your brain? On top of AR, the camera now has LED flash support, new filters, and can scan QR codes without a separate app.
5. Pay friends
Watch out, Venmo.
Owe a buddy $10 for pizza? Need to pay your rent to your roomie? Kid find their perfect outfit at the mall? Starting in the fall, Apple will link Apple Pay with Messages, so you can transfer money as you chat. It’s not out just yet, but it’s an incredibly smart move given that companies like Facebook include in-chat payment and digital banking is increasing in popularity. And don’t scoff, either — for all you millennials out there that swear by Venmo (like myself), this is about convenience and eliminating clicks/steps.
P.S. You can pay using Siri, too.
Needless to say, this is only the tip of the iceberg. For a full download on iOS 11’s capabilities, check out their comprehensive guide, here.