Apple unveils 'Memoji,' new augmented reality feature at WWDC

Among the uses for the new augmented-reality feature on iOS devices is a LEGO game users can play with friends. Photo courtesy of Apple

By Danielle Haynes, UPI

Apple CEO Tim Cook on Monday revealed a slew of new features for the company's devices, including a new look-alike emoji and an augmented-reality feature that allows users to share 3D objects with others.

He announced the updates in the keynote of the annual Worldwide Developers Conference at the McEnery Convention Center in San Jose, Calif. The five-day event focuses on advancements in software, not hardware

For the iPhone, Apple introduced an update for its operating system to iOS 12, which will work with all phones dating back to 5s and all iPads as old as the mini 2. The iPod touch 6th generation also will be compatible.

Animojis -- animated emojis based on users' facial expressions -- will now detect tongue movement and include a ghost, koala, tiger and T rex. New with iOS 12 will be Memojis -- Animojis designed to look like the user's face.

There also will be a new augmented reality file format that lets users share 3D objects with others and can be used in third-party software. A new app called Measure will let users measure objects and distances in augmented reality.

Also announced for iPhone: new search features for Photos; Siri shortcuts; use of third-party navigation apps in CarPlay; grouped Notifications; screen time allowances and monitoring; and FaceTime for groups up to 32 people.

For the Apple Watch, the users can now listen to podcasts, not just Apple Music. There's also a new feature that turns the device into a walkie talkie with friends and family.

Also new for Apple Watch: activity badges competitions with friends; auto-workout detection; addition of hiking and yoga to workout options; new running features; student ID cards to be tested at select schools; enhanced notifications; and new Pride-related bands and face.

For the Mac, Apple unveiled macOS Mojave, the latest version of the desktop operating system. The update includes a new nighttime Dark Mode; a Stacks feature to organize messy desktops; introduction of iOS apps including News, Stocks, Voice Memos and Home; and a Mac App Store redesign.

And finally, for Apple TV 4K, a new software update to tvOS 12, with support for Dolby Atmos audio, which features immersive sound that flows around in three-dimensional space. Apple also teamed uo with Charter Communications to offer 4K TV streaming to the devices, as well as single sign-on for all TV apps linked to the cable company.