Using iOS 16, Apple may give the iPhone a new shine.

The most significant aspect of Apple's future announcements could already be in your pocket.

Apple is expected to release a slew of software updates for its iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers at its annual Worldwide Developers Conference, or WWDC, as well as maybe a new performance-focused Mac Pro computer and new TV-related capabilities.

According to Bloomberg and other sources, the new software for iPhones will contain mini "widget" apps on the lock screen. Apple is also expected to boost multitasking and the ability to run programs side by side, especially on the iPad. CNET reviewer Scott Stein, who has criticized Apple's tablet for its lack of PC-like functions, would welcome those additions.

In his assessment of last year's iPad Pro, Stein said, "The hardware seems just about ideal." The iPad Pro is now powered by the same M1 CPUs as Apple's MacBook computers. "This might be a great computer if Apple starts updating its iPadOS to include new capabilities, more multitasking and monitor support, more Pro apps, and maybe even some sort of Mac compatibility mode using the M1 processor it now shares with all those new Macs."

A spokesperson at Apple declined to comment.

Despite the fact that Apple may show off some hardware at this year's WWDC, the event is mostly focused on the company's future goals. It's a chance for Apple to tease concepts that will fuel crucial new features in its products. WWDC has previously been used by Apple to introduce new iPhone software designs, new coding languages for its devices, and new initiatives such as the switch to homemade chips for Mac computers.

Over the last few years, Apple has also extended its subscription options. Apple TV Plus, which costs $5 per month for movies and TV shows, Apple Arcade, which costs $5 per month, and Apple Fitness Plus, which costs $10 per month, are now available. Apple claims that people have reacted positively to them so far, citing the 825 million accounts with paid subscriptions on its platform at the end of March. This represents a 17 percent increase over the previous year.

"The pandemic has highlighted how much we rely on this stuff even more," said Carolina Milanesi, a Creative Strategies analyst.

iOS 16 is believed to be the name of Apple's next major iPhone software release.

 Much, much, much more

There's a chance Apple will reveal new devices at WWDC this year, including the Mac Pro performance desktop, which has already been teased. Even if Apple doesn't generate a wow-worthy moment, Milanesi said she'll be on the lookout for seemingly minor software updates that, over time, add up to major changes in how the company's products operate.

For example, with iOS 8, the business began experimenting with widgets, or mini-programs. Those widgets were limited at the time and only appeared in the Notification Center. With iOS 14, Apple brought widgets to the home screen after six years of development.

Those software updates, which Apple distributes for free to iPhones and iPads purchased within the last five years, are unique. Most other companies do not continue to add features to their products after they have been sold.

The new software also allows Apple to deliver something new that isn't reliant on manufacturing, which has failed to keep up with demand and isn't affected by inflationary costs.

"Apple has a unique ability to refresh things in a manner that others don't," Milanesi said of Apple's software.

Apple has been progressively expanding the number of devices with which its products may interact.

The Big Apple

Another set of improvements Apple has been making to its smartphones, tablets, and computers is how effectively they connect with other devices that aren't made by the corporation. Apple, for example, has incorporated software that allows its Apple Watch to communicate with gym equipment over time. Near-field communication technology, which was first developed for Apple Pay wireless credit card purchases, has now been expanded to include keys for getting into a car and, shortly, driver's licenses for usage at airports.

"All of this transfers not only to Apple's devices, but also to other smartphones," said Bob O'Donnell, a Technalysis research analyst.

O'Donnell will be on the lookout for any mention of industry-wide projects that Apple will support this year in particular. Apple has partnered with Fast Identity Online, or FIDO, to boost login security across the web in recent years. It also became a member of Matter, a group of device makers led by Amazon, Samsung, and Google that aims to make it easier for smart home gadgets to communicate with one another.

"That's where you go beyond just saying, 'Here's a new version of iOS with X, Y, and Z capabilities,'" O'Donnell continued.

There's always the possibility that Apple will make a surprise reveal of its long-rumored AR spectacles, which are scheduled to be on sale next year. Analysts believe it's a good moment for Apple to focus on the software that makes its products stand out at a time when manufacturing is faltering and the broader economy is unstable.

In a recent message to investors, Wedbush analyst Daniel Ives wrote, "With an unparalleled installed base of 1 billion iPhones worldwide and 1.8 billion iOS devices for Cupertino, this continues to remain Apple's unique advantage over other technology stalwarts," referring to Apple's hometown of Cupertino, California.

Ives went on to say that, despite the fact that a quarter of those phones haven't been upgraded in more than three years, demand for Apple's devices is still high, thanks in part to the company's regular software updates. "The iPhone upgrade cycle's stickiness is being overestimated," he remarked.