WWDC 2020: 3 announcements to expect from Apple’s first major event of the year

This has been a year of virtual events and product launches as companies navigate through the effects of COVID-19. Apple, despite the proven consistency of its annual set of events, is not exempted as evidenced by its decision to hold a virtual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) this year.

iOS and other operating system updates

Updates on iOS and other Apple operating systems have been some of the highlights during the annual WWDC, and this year should not be any different. There have been plenty of reports about the potential features and improvements launching through the iOS 14 and other updates.

The keynote speech at the 2020 WWDC should set the record straight which of those are real. WWDC is very likely to provide the first-ever look on what would be released on the iOS 14 as well as updates for the iPadOS, watchOS, tvOS, and macOS.

AirPods Studio: The first over-ear AirPods

While WWDC is more commonly known as the venue for software-related announcements, Apple has also used this event to announce upcoming hardware products. Since the company’s rumored event last March was reportedly internally canceled, this month’s virtual gathering might include more hardware unveiling than usual.

One that has been on Apple fans’ radar over the previous weeks is the AirPods Studio. It is anticipated as the first over-ear AirPods, and various leaks have suggested that the device is very much ready to be announced and to be released in stores. In this case, WWDC should be the perfect time for Apple to finally take the curtains off of this headphone.

Apple ditches Intel for Macs with ARM-based chips?

Speaking of hardware announcements, Apple is expected to have something brewing for the Mac lovers out there, and it is not a typical product refresh. Rumors in recent weeks have intensified that Apple is ditching Intel and shifts to using ARM-based chips for the new Macs that are reportedly planned to be revealed later this month. Since WWDC is the only big event Apple has in June, the ARM-based Macs are very likely part of the program next week.

As mentioned, the 2020 WWDC will be a completely virtual event, and this is the first time Apple hosting it this way. On the bright side, this means all Apple fans with an internet connection will have the opportunity to watch it as it happens next week. The WWDC kicks off on Monday, June 22, at 10 a.m. PDT.