If you tuned into Apple’s Worldwide Developer’s Conference for major game changing software updates, then the new features might be a tad bit disappointing. With that being said, the features introduced for the new iOS updates are a class act. Here are all the updates announced at the WWDC 2018 Conference!
1. Screen Time
Similar to Google and Android phones, Apple is working at increasing the balance between gadgets and life. The new Screen Time feature details about how much time is spent on the screen and individual devices. The new feature breaks down how much time is spent on individual apps, including games and texting apps! Screen Time will provide you with a weekly summary of how you use your phone. Furthermore, you can set time limits on each individual and once the time is up, a time’s up” message will display when the counter runs out. Apple is also introducing a parental control feature, giving parents the ability to reduce their kid’s screen time.
2. Memoji: Custom Emojis
The new Animoji features were first introduced to the Apple X. Starting with the iOS, Animoji will be able to detect your expression when you stick your tongue out at the camera. Apple terms the new emoji update feature as Memoji. With the new updates, users will not only be able to personalize the emoticons, they will also be able to change the face colour and customise as per requirement. The new updates are a cross between Bitmoji and Nintendo’s Mil characters.
3. Group Facetime
Taking Apple’s coveted Facetime feature a notch higher, iOS 12 has introduced an update called group Facetime sessions. According to the new update, almost 32 people will be able to Facetime at the same time. When multiple people are on a call, their video windows will get larger when they’re speaking and shrink when they’re not. For conversations where your face feels a little boring, you’ll be able to use Animoji and Memoji characters during calls.
4. Improved Augmented Reality Experience
The new iOS software promises improved augmented reality experiences. The Apple team is introducing a new file format called USDZ, a feature similar to the software being used by Adobe, Autodesk, and Sketchfab.
5. Measure APP
The Measure APP is Apple’s coolest new feature. As the name suggests, the app lets you accurately measure surfaces around you. Place the frame around the object needed measuring and the app accurately gives you the measurements you are after.
6. Pictures
The Photos App in iOS 12 will automatically offer search suggestions. With the “For You” tab, the new update offers suggestions based on earlier filters used. Furthermore, friends with pictures from similar events and places will be prompted to share their images as well.
7. Shortcuts App
The new Shortcuts App comes as a blessing in disguise for i Phone users. The app lets you string together multiple actions which can be prompted by a customised Siri request.
8. iBooks Become Apple Books
Apple is rebranding its ebook app from iBooks to Apple Books. Along with the name change comes a refreshed design that focuses on discoverability. A new Book Store tab “makes it easy to explore new titles and browse the top charts, curated collections, and special offers,” according to Apple.
The new features promise an improvement in the performance as opposed to improving the apps already available. The new iOS software is expected to roll out in November this year!
Apple is set to relocate all assembly of iPhones destined for the US market from China to India by the end of 2026, marking its biggest manufacturing shift in decades. The move is driven by escalating US-China trade tensions and steep tariffs—up to 145% on Chinese imports—making Chinese assembly increasingly costly for Apple. Although some smartphone imports are temporarily exempt, a 20% duty still applies to Chinese-made iPhones entering the US.
India, in contrast, offers a more favorable trade environment, with a paused 26% reciprocal tariff and ongoing negotiations for a bilateral trade deal with the US that could shield Indian exports from future levies. Apple plans to more than double its current iPhone output in India, aiming to assemble over 60 million units annually for the US market. The company already produces about 25% of its global iPhones in India, working with partners like Foxconn, Tata Electronics, and Pegatron.
This shift is part of Apple’s broader strategy to diversify its supply chain and reduce reliance on China amid geopolitical risks. However, the transition’s success will depend on how quickly India can scale up its manufacturing capabilities and the outcome of ongoing trade negotiations.
PhonePe’s PINCODE app has launched a 24×7 online medicine delivery service in Bangalore, Mumbai, and Pune, promising delivery of both prescription and over-the-counter medicines within 10 minutes from nearby local medical shops. Unlike conventional e-pharmacies that use dark stores, PINCODE partners exclusively with neighborhood pharmacies, enabling faster deliveries and supporting local businesses in the digital economy.
Customers without prescriptions can select a “no prescription” option when ordering; a qualified doctor then provides a free teleconsultation and issues a digital prescription compliant with telemedicine guidelines, ensuring seamless access to medicines. The app offers competitive pricing by passing discounts from local pharmacies directly to customers and charges no delivery fees.
PINCODE’s hyperlocal model enhances healthcare accessibility and convenience while empowering local pharmacies, helping them remain integral to their communities and stimulating local economic growth. Launched in 2023, the app focuses on quick commerce with an emphasis on speed, reliability, and supporting local sellers.
In summary, PhonePe’s PINCODE app is transforming medicine delivery in major Indian cities by combining ultra-fast 10-minute delivery, free doctor consultations, and a hyperlocal sourcing model that benefits both consumers and neighborhood pharmacies.
Cashfree Payments has appointed Piyush Anchliya as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective April 15, 2025. Anchliya brings over 15 years of experience in investment banking, corporate finance, strategy, and mergers and acquisitions, with senior roles at Barclays, Bandhan Group, and most recently as CFO of Bandhan AMC. He holds an MBA from IIM Ahmedabad and a B.Tech. from IIT Kharagpur.
In his new role, Anchliya will lead Cashfree’s financial strategy, optimize operations, and support the company’s next growth phase. He will report to CEO and Co-founder Akash Sinha, who highlighted Anchliya’s expertise as vital for sustainable scaling and strengthening the company’s financial foundation. Anchliya succeeds outgoing CFO Vikas Guru, who will assist during the transition.
Founded in 2015, Cashfree Payments processes over $80 billion annually for more than 800,000 businesses. The company recently raised $53 million in funding led by KRAFTON and Apis Growth Fund II and secured key RBI licenses, positioning it for accelerated growth in India’s fintech sector. Anchliya’s appointment comes at a pivotal time as Cashfree aims to expand its leadership in digital payments.
