WWDC 2024: Main announcements, timelines, and quick next steps

Apple used WWDC 2024 to roll out major software updates across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch plus refreshed developer tools. This page pulls together the most useful highlights, when betas arrive, and straightforward steps you can take whether you build apps or just use Apple gear.

Top announcements you should know

The keynote focused on new OS releases for phones, tablets, computers and watches, along with upgrades to Xcode and Swift aimed at making apps faster and easier to build. Expect performance optimizations, clearer privacy controls, and tighter device continuity so your apps and messages move between devices with less friction. Apple also pushed new developer APIs to support improved on-device processing and machine learning tasks.

Developer betas usually appear right after the keynote and public betas follow a few weeks later. Final consumer releases typically land around September, timed with new hardware launches. That pattern helps app teams test on real devices before millions of users upgrade.

How to prepare — practical steps for developers and users

If you’re a developer: back up your main device, install the developer beta on a spare device, update Xcode and third-party libraries, and run your app through core flows to spot crashes and UI issues. Use TestFlight to push quick fixes to testers, watch Apple’s WWDC session videos for API examples, and read sample code from Apple’s documentation pages.

If you’re a regular user: don’t install betas on your only phone. Wait for the public beta if you want an early look, or stick with the stable release if you rely on your device for work. Always make a full backup before upgrading and check app compatibility for banking, health, or work apps you need.

For readers in Africa: keynote livestreams are available on Apple.com and the Apple TV app. Check local time conversions before the event and use a reliable Wi‑Fi connection when downloading betas to avoid data charges. If your internet is slow, download updates overnight when networks are less congested.

Watch for these immediate follow-ups after WWDC: developer beta notes, bug-fix updates, and Apple’s detailed session videos. Those resources show sample code and migration tips that save hours during testing. Bookmark the developer portal and subscribe to release notes so you don’t miss critical changes.

Want coverage that matters? Follow this WWDC 2024 tag for quick how-tos, compatibility lists, and hands-on guides as betas roll out. We’ll highlight practical fixes and step-by-step checks to keep your device working and your apps ready for the next update.