Great news, for all you techies out there – Apple just unveiled the new iOS 12 at its annual WWDC Conference in San Jose, California, on Monday.

The iOS is the latest version of the software powering the iPhone and iPad, and it should be available later this year as a free update compatible with the same range of devices that can run iOS 11, reports TIME.

And to sweeten the deal, it’s going to come with delicious new apps and features.

Makes the updating process all the more worthwhile, huh? Take a look at these six standout features that you’ll get with the update:

Screentime and Do Not Disturb

Apple’s new Screentime app will allow users to see detailed reports about how often they use their iPhone and which apps they use most frequently. Users can also find out which apps most often make them pick up their iPhones. Time limits for particular apps will also be available to users, and parents can set those time limits for their children.

And if you’re not the type who likes getting messages while you’re catching up on your beauty sleep, the iPhone’s Do Not Disturb will now let users mute incoming notifications overnight, or for an hour or while at a specific location.

Siri Shortcuts

Using the new Siri Shortcuts app, iPhone owners can build customized [sic] actions for Siri to perform upon hearing a given command. For instance, you might program Siri to pull up a live traffic report and your favorite driving music after saying “Siri, I’m heading home.”

So whether it’s asking Siri to give an update on Johnny Depp, or pulling up a video on Britain’s Got Talent,  the possibilities are endless.

Go on Android users, make the switch and impress your friends.

New Animoji and Memoji

What the heck is a Memoji, you may ask?

MyBroadBand reports that Memoji, which was revealed at the end of the iOS 12 presentation, is pretty similar to Nintendo’s Mii. It allows you to make a personalised emoji avatar based on a user’s appearance which can be customised – sort of like an emoji version of Sims.

As for Animoji, there’ll be a handful of animated “animoji” added with iOS 12, including a koala, T-rex and more.

Group FaceTime

FaceTime will support group calls going forward, with calls supporting up to 32 simultaneous users.

This includes a new dynamic user interface which shows all callers in a group FaceTime video call as tiles which adjust in size and position, depending on who is talking.

Measure

If you’re crafty, or you fancy yourself an adept DIYer, the Measure app is just for you:

Apple’s aptly-named Measure app takes advantage of the company’s developments in augmented reality to let users measure real-world objects, like furniture, picture frames and more.

Google Maps and Waze in Carplay

Third-party mapping and navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze are coming to CarPlay, Apple’s in-car interface for using apps while driving.

Excited for the new iOS 12 update? I know I am.

If you want any more info how this update can improve your Apple experience, or if you’re just in the market for a new iPhone or iPad, head down to Digicape, South Africa’s largest independent Apple retailer – they’ll get you sorted out in no time.

We also want to remind you that Digicape has partnered with Lacie to offer you the chance to win one of five supercar experiences. The competition is now on and runs to July 31, so click here to learn how you can get in on the action and live your supercar dream.

[sources:time&mybroadband]