The latest Apple iOS update will focus heavily on integrating iPads into classrooms around the world, as well as helping users have more “pleasant dreams”.
The iOS 9.3 updates were revealed on Monday and include several new features for the iPad to be used in schools, a Night Shift function and new levels of privacy protection.
Apple says the updates will transfer the iPad into a “new teaching assistant”. With iOS 9.3 it will be easier for multiple students to log into the same device and have a personalised experience and the Apple School Manager will help teachers to monitor the work and administration side of things.
“Technology can reshape education,” the Apple site says.
“And iPad, with its powerful features and apps, opens up new, more engaging ways of learning.
“With the iOS 9.3 beta, you’ll find a preview of new features that will make it even easier for schools to put devices where they’ll have the greatest impact – in the hands of students.”
Also included in the update will be Night Shift, a tool that “automatically shifts the colours in your display to the warmer end of the spectrum” when the sun goes down, using the device’s clock and geolocation.
The aim is to make it “easier on your eyes” and to help Apple users get a better night’s sleep, although there are already several existing apps that strive to do the same thing.
Other new features include a lock function for the Notes app and better personalisation for Apple News.
The developer beta is available now, while the public beta should be live later this week.
Denham Sadler is a freelance journalist based in Melbourne.
