Apple will launch iOS 12 on September 17, bringing many new features

Apple announced Wednesday the release of iOS 12 for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch users on Sept. 17. The announcement was made before Apple announced three new iPhones: the iPhone XS, the iPhone XS Max and the iPhone XR.

The update, announced for the first time in June, focuses on improving performance, especially for older iOS devices. Other notable features of iOS 12 include bulk notifications, changes made to Do Not Disturb and the ability for users to program Siri to perform a series of tasks.

Also: iOS 12: Release date, new features and hidden CNET features

Using a new shortcut app in iOS 12, users can associate a series of tasks such as locking the door, lighting a lamp, starting a playlist and sending a message to a loved one with a single Siri command. for example. And, for the first time, third-party applications can integrate with Siri via shortcuts for tasks such as ordering a cup of coffee while on the go.

Starting from iOS 12, notifications are now grouped according to the application, rather than in an endless chronological flow. Apple has also added the ability to edit if an app's notifications display or not on the lock screen, directly from an alert.

Also: 14 features of iOS 12 to know

Screen Time is also debuting with iOS 12. This feature aims to draw attention to the time spent by users on a particular device or on a series of devices. Screen Time also serves as a means of parental control to limit the applications that a child can access and when the device can be used as a whole.

Also: All the new features of iOS 12 that you can expect TechRepublic

FaceTime was originally supposed to receive its biggest update, adding the possibility for up to 32 people to a video chat at the same time. However, during beta testing, Apple removed the feature and the reported FaceTime group calls would eventually be launched in a future iOS 12 update.

Another improvement of iOS 12 is that the Messages application is Memoji. Similar to Animoji, Memoji is limited to iPhone X, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR. Instead of lions or other animated objects, users can create a very realistic cartoon character. Users can then save videos or take pictures using the Memoji, and send it via the Messages application.

iOS 12 is a free update, which should begin on September 17th.

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