SAN FRANCISCO�Apple�s 2016 Worldwide Developers Conference previewed iOS 10, characterized by Senior Vice President of Software Engineering Craig Federighi in an announcement as its �biggest release ever.��
Apple Music might not have been the big headline introduction at WWDC16 (in tech fanboy/girl parlance), but developers did announce a redesign for its subscription music service, among other commonly used apps. The changes emphasize �clarity and simplicity� and also promote easier navigation and new music discovery. Complaints about those have plagued the app since it debuted one year ago.
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The new Search tab should go a long way to solving some of the navigation issues, although it�s not entirely clear what the company means when it says that the Library, For You, Browse and Radio tabs offer �a greater sense of place.��
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The preview website declares the radio feature is �Not just radio reimagined. Radio like you�ve never imagined.� However, some streaming companies may dispute that.
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For example, Beats1 is the app�s live station, broadcast from New York, and with Apple Music, users can interact with the music by adding songs they like to their libraries (like Spotify) or creating playlists or customized stations (tapping the heart tells the app to play more songs like the one you�re currently listening to � like Pandora). Curated playlists are also available in every conceivable genre and targeting specific activities (like iHeartRadio�s Perfect For playlists).
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Apple Music has approximately 15 million subscribers. The company is offering a free three-month trial of the service (Spotify Premium�s summer deal costs $.99 per month). Past the initial trial, individual membership is $9.99 per month ($4.99 if you�re a student), and a family of up to six people can get theirs for $14.99. �
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Other iOS 10 news may affect the connected car. Independent app developers can now use SiriKit to create apps that use voice recognition technology to perform tasks � such as accessing CarPlay apps or �adjust radio settings within automakers� apps,� according to Apple. Siri is already able to take requests in Apple Music.�
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A developer version of iOS is available to program members, while the public can get the beta experience beginning in July. The full software update will begin to roll out across the company�s various devices in the fall. Preview it now here.
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