iOS 7 Release Date 2013 Rumors & Features: Changes to Apps Icons and Fonts
With the release date of Apple iOS 7 soon to be announced, app designers are looking for ways to revamp their programs so they are compatible with the new system.
The new iOS will have a "flatter" design. As a result, app developers will have to change their visual language while creating their applications.
Changes in iOS 7 include adjustments to the size and shape of app icons and other commonly used items, as well as differences in iconography and typography.
The app icons for iOS 7 will now feature a "superellipse" shape which differs from the simple radii values for rounded corners with which app programmers are familiar.
Classic icons, which feature outlines with color-fills, will be used in iOS 7, but there will also be the addition of icons that are pure outlines without any color.
In terms of font, Helvetica Neue will still be the default font in the new Apple release. The difference here is that the font will be displayed more often in Light face instead of Regular and Bold, which is most commonly seen in Apple devices today.
These pending changes are so important to app designers that one blogger even made a cheat sheet to help programmers keep up with Apple's modifications.
iOS7 is expected to be easier, faster and more enjoyable for users. Apps will look different, but Apple claims they will have the same familiar feel its customers are used to. As a result, relearning should not be necessary in order to operate iOS 7.
Some of iOS 7's biggest new features include AirDrop for iOS and Control Center.
With AirDrop, Apple adds a feature already available from some of its competitors. AirDrop allows users to share items like videos, contacts and photos from any app with a Share button. AirDrop then sends the item via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth through a secure network.
The Control Center will give users easy access to commonly used apps and commands such as Airplane mode, brightness display and Wi-Fi control, Bluetooth, Do Not Disturb, lock screen orientation and music control. All that is needed is a quick swipe to access tools like iOS 7's new flashlight, as well customer favorites like the calculator, camera and timer.
The Notification Center will also be upgraded. Typically, the Notification Centers shows users their new mail, to-do list, missed calls and similar news. iOS 7 adds a new feature called "Today." With Today, the iPhone will display all of the news of the day including weather, traffic, and birthdays. As usual, the Notification Center will be accessible from any screen by swiping down. With iOS 7, the Notification Center will also be accessible through the lock screen.