Even though Apple has not yet released a beta for new watchOS system software, the company has shared some notes about it, with the addition of SiriKit and Theater Mode.
SiriKit has been available on the iPhone and iPad since iOS 10 was released. In addition to extending Siri’s support for messaging, photo search and phone calls to more apps when paired with an iPhone, the API also gives developers support for new services, including ride booking and personal payments.
With SiriKit, Apple is using its App Extension mechanism to allow third-party developers to build new support for Siri into their apps by registering domains and intents they can handle.
Theater Mode was first leaked in late-December as a feature for the iPhone. It appears Theatre Mode will allow Apple Watch owners to disable the “raise to wake” function on the watch, but still notify users with haptic feedback of notifications without illuminating the watch’s display.
Apple has not announced a release date for watchOS 3.2 beta. Earlier today, the company released betas for macOS 10.12.4, iOS 10.3, and tvOS 10.2.
