Apple’s week-long Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) is one of the biggest events on the technology calendar. We often find out whether rumors of new features in the upcoming OS updates are true, but that’s not the only reason you should consider tuning in.

During the event held annually in June, Apple makes a batch of other important announcements. For example, it’s not traditionally when the company mentions new hardware releases—but there’s always the potential of that happening.

Below, you’ll discover the six biggest reasons you should care about the WWDC event. Maybe we’ll even convince you to tune in this year…?

1. Updates to iOS, iPadOS, and macOS

iOS 16 home screen on iPhone

Even the most casual Apple gadget user looks ahead to the major OS updates released each fall. Apple’s iOS updates are perhaps the most famed, and it’s usually iPhones that are at the front of the queue for new software. macOS updates typically arrive later in the fall.

At each WWDC, Apple also announces what you can expect with the next big iPadOS update. And if you have an Apple Watch, you’ll want to tune in to discover the watchOS features you can expect your device to get a few months later.

After Apple reveals what you can expect from its new operating software, the company releases beta versions so developers and public beta testers can test the update and identify necessary improvements.

Every year, Apple launches two versions of its beta software. But the two versions aren’t the same, and you can read all about the key differences between the public and developer beta.

2. Possible Hardware Releases

MacBook with lid open showing the display

In most WWDC events, Apple doesn’t announce its flagship products like the iPhone and MacBook. It used to show off the latest iPhone suite in the summer, but 2010 was the last time we saw a release of this kind.

However, it’s not entirely out of the question that Apple reveals new hardware in the summer. In 2022, for example, the company showcased the redesigned MacBook Air and refreshed the 13-inch MacBook Pro with the M2 chip.

As we move into a world of new technological possibilities, hardware releases might become more common at the WWDC. For example, Bloomberg predicted that Apple would launch its first augmented reality/virtual reality (AR/VR) headset at WWDC 2-23.

3. New Apple Ecosystem Features

Send Files Across Mac and iPad with Universal Control

Okay, sure—it’s nice to learn about new features like customizable Lock Screens and editing text messages. But many people love buying Apple products because it’s easy to use different devices with the same Apple ID. With that in mind, you should care about the annual WWDC if you want to keep an eye out for new tools that will make using your gadgets even easier.

Apple often announces new ecosystem features at its WWDC events. One major announcement took place in 2013 when we learned about the iCloud Keychain. Since then, it has become easier to use passwords across multiple devices. We no longer need to worry about safety as much, nor must we put in a huge amount of manual work.

Continuity was another WWDC announcement that has shaped how we use our iPhones, iPads, and Macs together. Apple initially mentioned Continuity in 2014 and has made steady improvements over the years since its first release.

4. Fans Can Learn What Apple Is Up to on a Business Level

Apple Store with people in the background

Most of us know and love our Apple products, but many users also want to know what the company is up to on a business level. While these kinds of announcements aren’t always as glamorous as the next big iOS update, Apple still usually provides updates on what it’s doing during the WWDC.

Perhaps the most famous example of an Apple business update was in 1997 when Steve Jobs returned to the company 12 years after being removed from the board of directors.

5. The Opportunity to Visit the Apple Park

Apple Park aerial view

Most Apple users know what the Apple Park campus in Cupertino looks like, but some people don’t get regular opportunities to visit the company’s headquarters. The WWDC is a huge chance for developers and Apple enthusiasts to visit the head office, even though obtaining a ticket isn’t easy.

Before 2020, you could purchase WWDC tickets for $1,599 per person. Now, however, attendees are randomly picked, and you don’t need to pay money.

You can potentially get a ticket if you’re in the Apple Developer Program or Apple Developer Enterprise Program, along with a selection of other scenarios. And if you’re selected, you’ll have a chance—that not many people get—to visit one of the tech sector’s biggest events.

6. Connect With Apple Engineers and Other Developers

Four Friends Happy and Laughing

WWDC is a great place to learn about Apple’s upcoming software releases, but it also poses a big personal growth opportunity. Even if you don’t receive tickets to the in-person event, you can attend online and gain valuable insights from the experts at Apple.

You can participate in programming challenges to learn more about software development. And if you do have the opportunity to attend in person, you’ll be able to learn all sorts of interesting tips and tricks from like-minded people.

If you’re looking to get your foot into the tech industry, the WWDC can help you get useful career pointers. Whether you can or can’t attend the event, you can read more about how to get the experience you need to land your first tech job.

Apple’s WWDC Event Is Incredibly Important

The WWDC is a crucial event for developers, and you’ll discover a host of opportunities to grow your skills. But even if you only use Apple products and don’t have a tech background, you’ll learn about all the new features you can expect in the fall OS updates.

Apple also often talks about new functionalities you can enjoy within its ecosystem, and learning more about these will make using your Apple devices much easier. Beyond that, developers can visit the Apple Park campus in Cupertino and much more.