With the launch of iOS 18, we celebrate 18 years of innovation in iPhone software, making it seem like introducing impactful new features would be quite challenging. Yet, one of the standout additions to iOS, Live Activities, ranks among Apple’s most significant recent updates, and it continues to evolve with ongoing improvements.
Live Activities launched effectively
The iPhone 14 Pro debuted with a departure from the notorious notch design, introducing the unique Dynamic Island instead.
This innovative design approach laid the groundwork for Apple to build a remarkable software feature that complements the camera cutouts in the display. It’s a clever idea that has since been incorporated into more iPhone models.
The arrival of the Dynamic Island also marked the introduction of Live Activities to iOS, aligning perfectly with the new always-on display for the iPhone. Here’s how Apple describes this feature:
Live Activities deliver regular updates that are visible in convenient areas like the Lock Screen, within StandBy mode on iPhone, and through the Dynamic Island.
For the last few years, I’ve primarily used Live Activities for managing timers and tracking Uber rides. However, thanks to recent updates, this feature has become indispensable for me.
Apple and third-party apps enhance the experience
The integration of Live Activities in the Apple Sports app significantly enhanced my experience. Previously, the TV app also featured sports-related Live Activities, but it was easy to overlook and somewhat inconvenient to navigate.
Now, with the Sports app, Live Activities can automatically activate for your preferred teams, ensuring you’re always updated on the latest happenings.
Recently, Apple News has introduced a Live Activity feature for the US election, which is fantastic for users wanting to stay informed about the latest results without being glued to the television or a news app.
Several third-party applications continue to integrate valuable support for Live Activities as well. For instance, Uber Eats allows easy tracking of food deliveries, and various other food service apps do the same. Some applications even support real-time tracking of file uploads through Live Activities.
For Apple Watch users, Live Activities are now integrated into the Smart Stack feature in watchOS 11.
Initially, I didn’t make use of the Smart Stack when it was introduced, but now that Live Activities are automatically displayed there, it has proven to be a convenient addition.
Live Activities overview: Future potential
Looking ahead, I hope to see the News app incorporate Live Activities for more special events, including awards shows and even Apple’s own events. Live Activities could serve as a modern interpretation of traditional live blogging.
There’s also a possibility for more Apple applications to embrace Live Activity support. For example, my iPhone’s Lock Screen could display upcoming rain forecasts through Live Activities—something already available on the Apple Watch.
Furthermore, Apple might consider extending Live Activities to other devices, such as the iPad or Mac, potentially displaying them in the corner of the screen as a valuable addition.
What are your thoughts on Live Activities? How would you like to see them evolve? Share your ideas in the comments.
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