Along with the fourth beta release of iOS 16/iPadOS 16 to developers, Apple also pushed out the ActivityKit Beta, which means everyone will soon be able to enjoy building more Live Activity real-time activity widgets for the iOS 16 lock screen interface. At the WWDC Worldwide Developers Conference in June, Apple demonstrated this novel interactive status notification designed to make it easier for users to keep an eye on live content through the lock screen interface.
(via MacRumors)
According to Apple officials, Live Activity is not exactly the same as a widget as a UI extension to an application – after all, the two use different mechanisms to receive updates.
For example, users can use Live Activity to stay on top of sports events and easily view updated scores on the lock screen. And if you’re waiting for an Uber ride, the widget can also show you how close the driver is.
And for developers, they can configure, start, update and terminate Live Activity features through ActivityKit.
On the iOS 16 / iPadOS preview page, Apple does not list Live Activity as the first available. Even so, the Cupertino tech giant is allowing developers to get a sneak peek at its app.
If all goes well, Live Activity will officially arrive with the major iOS 16 update this fall. But in the meantime, developers can’t officially submit Live Activity-enabled apps to Apple.
