ICYMI: Mobile & Beyond; 20:2024
We are now in the latter half of the week and I’m finally getting this issue published. Yes, there were other things competing for my time (aren’t there always), but that wasn’t the only hold-up. It was the volume of information from Google I/O (and beyond) that I needed to sift through to surface the most important points (as they relate to mobile, of course). It’s a good problem to have and, hopefully, you agree with the news I opted to share from last week.
Week 20 (05/12–05/18)
Google… held its annual I/O developer conference last week. AI, AI, and more AI! Gemini updates were announced, Project Astra was demoed, and various sessions were held on deeper topics all revolving around AI. I’m not kidding. Check out the Keynote in under 10 minutes and this Google I/O Mobile Playlist.
Android… updates were included in the I/O announcements. Yes, it’s more AI. Deeper Circle to Search integration, an omni-present Gemini, and scam detection on live calls are some of the new features that will be rolling out. Additional updates are coming to the larger Android ecosystem as well. Check out the Google I/O session for Android.
Material Design… updates were also included in the I/O sessions. As the system turns ten, Material will support personal, expressive, and accessible experiences through color and typography updates. Check out this blog post on user studies for M2 vs M3, this podcast series, and this Google I/O Design Playlist.
iPad Pro… reviews began rolling out for the new 2024 model. The tandem OLED screen, M4 chip, and overall thinness are the highlights, the price (+ new Magic Keyboard + Apple Pencil Pro) is the main lowlight. And, considering how powerful the iPad Pro has become, there’s a growing sentiment of wanting more. The linked article includes a hands-on video.
iOS 17.5… also released to the general public (along with iPadOS 17.5 and watchOS 10.5). The update brings the ability to install from a developer’s website in the EU, Apple News updates, and a handful of minor design changes (includes screenshots). The linked article also includes a hands-on video.
Events
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[Jun 10–14] WWDC24 (Apple)