Apple Announces Changes To iPhone and iPad, Stock Hits All-Time High - InvestingChannel

Apple Announces Changes To iPhone and iPad, Stock Hits All-Time High

Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) has unveiled the most drastic changes to the iPhone since the product’s initial release back in 2007

At a virtual developer’s conference, Apple Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook announced the changes to the upcoming iPhone as part of a software update. Specifically, the new iPhone’s home screen will allow users to place widgets that sit between the typical grid of apps.

The widgets present information from an app, such as the weather or a calendar, that updates throughout the day and can be set at different sizes. The new software will also allow users to hide apps and access a new screen for organizing and searching software. Similar features will also appear on the iPad.

The new software, called iOS 14, will also let users set a default email or web browser not made by Apple for the first time. Cook also said that Apple will add several travel-focused tools to the iPhone. Updates to Apple Maps will include travel guides and improved bicycle routes in some cities.

Siri, the company’s voice-activated digital assistant, will no longer cover up the screen when opened and will allow users to record audio messages and dictate text messages without transmitting their voice to Apple’s servers.

The iPad is also getting new designs for apps that make better use of larger screens. Several apps, including Calendar, Files, Music, Notes and Photos, will receive a Mac-like sidebar and tool bar.

Shares of Apple closed at a new all-time high of $358.87 on Monday following the announcements made at the developer’s conference.