WWDC 2015: 6 Best New Features of iOS 9

By Kamal Nayan - 09 Jun '15 02:55AM

Apple unveiled the next generation of its mobile operating system, iOS 9 which will be released this fall. The software doesn't drop support for any device that is supporting iOS 8. Of course, anyone having a developer account can start playing with the new version of iOS beginning today.

iOS 9 mainly contains under-the-hood improvements but it also sports handful of new features. Here're some of them:

Siri Improvements

Siri is getting a new interface and tons of new features. The company has added a new "Proactive Assistant" to Siri which means like Google Now, Siri will proactively serve up information and perform functions without any action taken by the user.

For example, Siri will recommend leaving time based on the current traffic situations. It also offers suggestions to contact people based on the participants in the upcoming meeting.

Siri also understands context now, so if you are reading an email and want to be reminded about it later, you can simply ask Siri to remind about it later.

Siri can now also automatically add invites and events to calendar.

Apple Pay Enhancements

Discover cards are being added to Apple Pay. Brands like Trader Joe's and Baskin Robbins will also being accepting Apple Pay. Notably, Apple Pay will also be working with Square to launch a new Apple-Pay compatible card reader that can be used by small businesses.

Passbook app has been incorporated into a new app called Wallet in iOS 9.

Improvement to Notes and Maps App

Apple has also improved its native apps like Notes and Maps. Notes has gotten a new toolbar and built-in check list support. Links can now also be added to note using a new share sheet entry. You can now also sketch your thoughts, i.e, Use the tip of your finger to draw right in your note.

Apple has also added new maps and associated information for public transit. The new Apple maps will route using all available modes of public transportation.

Apple News

Apple also unveiled a new application called News. The app personalizes news content from a wide range of sources, presenting content in a great interactive user interface. Rich typography and interactive content are the main highlights of the app. Apple is enabling publishers to customize content to take advantage of all the features News offers.

iPad Multitasking

iOS 9 contains several iPad-specific updates in iOS 9. There's a new shortcuts section in the keyboard that provides quick access to things like copy/paste features. A new feature, "Slide Over" allows users to slide new apps onto screen.

Low Power Mode

This new feature of iOS 9 will extend battery life by up to three hours when enabled. It's similar to offerings from Samsung and HTC. It would limit some functionality but core features will still function.

Other than these, the iOS 9 is going to be a relatively smaller update. iOS 8 was 4.58 GB while iOS 9 is only going to weigh 1.3GB.