iOS 8 Features List: Emojis? New Icons? HomeKit, QuickType, Continuity, Notification Center, HealthKit, and Others

A number of iOS users have wondered if there’s new emojis for iOS 8.
Jack Phillips
9/16/2014
Updated:
9/18/2014

A number of iOS users have wondered if there’s new emojis for iOS 8.

Unfortunately, it’s been reported that there probably won’t be new emojis (or emoticons) that come with the new system.

PhonesReview wrote in a report earlier this month: “Some are hoping that there will be new iPhone emojis in iOS 8 we previously reported that we don’t expect this with the first iOS 8 release. We thought it best to give a new iPhone emojis reminder that this is not likely to happen at the iOS 8 launch.”

The site also reported in July that Unicode version 7.0 needed more development before the new emojis come out. The new Unicode version is slated to come out Oct. 15. “We have been contacted by a few of our readers still expecting the new emojis in iOS 8. However, as the core Unicode 7 spec won’t be completed until after the iOS 8 release date, we’re not likely to see new iPhone and iPad emojis until iOS 8.1 at the earliest,” the report said.

But when it comes out, it appears there will be a dramatic change, as Android Origin notes.

“The list of emojis that will come in Unicode version 7.0 include a thermometer, a white sun in different weather settings, a black droplet, a cloud in different weather settings, a wind-blowing face, and fog. There’s plenty more,” it said.

Here’s a few new features for iOS 8:

Device Continuity

The iOS 8 has been designed to have very high integration with the OS X, which has been rumored to come out in October. Apple users will be able to answer phones via their laptop or get texts on a desktop computer.

One feature called Handoff can move a document from an iPhone / iPad to a desktop or laptop.

Keyboard

One of the biggest features that Apple will upgrade in the new OS the keyboard. It’s said to be the most extensive keyboard change since the iPhone came out years ago.

Apple says it will enable third-party typing apps like Swype, which is available on Android.

QuickType will also be introduced, which has a Google-like autocomplete syste.

Health

The HealthKit tool is built into the iOS 8 and allows users to track their vital signs, sleeping habits, and diet.

HomeKit

There’s also a way to control garage doors, thermostats, and other home appliances or systems. However, there hasn’t much information released about it.

Developers

Apple also announced that developers can sell app bundles at discounted prices.

Jack Phillips is a breaking news reporter with 15 years experience who started as a local New York City reporter. Having joined The Epoch Times' news team in 2009, Jack was born and raised near Modesto in California's Central Valley. Follow him on X: https://twitter.com/jackphillips5
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