14 DAY TRIAL // Surprising everyone, Apple today seeded the first beta builds to its upcoming iOS 11.2, tvOS 11.2, and watchOS 4.2 operating systems for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Apple TV, and Apple Watch devices respectively.
Apple was previously developing the iOS 11.1, tvOS 11.1, and watchOS 4.1 software updates, which received up to five beta releases during the entire month of October, so we have no idea yet why Apple decided to bump the version number of these upcoming operating systems and begin a new beta testing series.
What we know, for now, is that Apple confirmed the iOS 11.2 update, which introduces SiriKit support for its forthcoming HomePod smart speaker, allowing iOS apps and watchOS apps to work with the Siri intelligent personal assistant. With SiriKit, developers can easily integrate HomePod support into their apps.
"iOS 11.2 introduces SiriKit for HomePod, the powerful speaker that sounds amazing, adapts to wherever it’s playing, and provides instant access to Apple Music," said Apple. "And with SiriKit, users can access iOS apps for Messaging, Lists, and Notes. Make sure your SiriKit integration is up to date and test your app’s voice-only experience today."
HomePod coming December in the US, UK, and Australia
HomePod was first announced by Apple on June 5, 2017, during the WWDC (Worldwide Developers Conference), but it will be available for purchase beginning December, in the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia at first. HomePod also wants to be a helpful home assistant for your everyday tasks and questions.
HomePod can be voice activated with Siri, and it can be easily controlled through your iPhone or iPad, or even from your wrist using the Apple Watch. Developers who want to integrate SiriKit support into their apps for HomePod can visit the dedicated website that Apple recently put together.
You can already install the iOS 11.2 Beta release on your registered devices and test SiriKit, but you'll have to wait until December for the HomePod. We believe Apple plans to seed the final iOS 11.2 software update to everyone also in December, along with the launch of HomePod.