WWDC 2018 returns to San Jose, runs June 4 to 8

By

WWDC-2018
WWDC 2018 is coming to San Jose, California. Here's how to take your shot at getting tickets to the exclusive event.
Photo: Apple

Apple will kick off its 29th annual Worldwide Developers Conference on June 4.

The week-long event, which will offer the first previews of Apple’s next big software updates, will again be held in the McEnery Convention Center in San Jose. Developers can register for tickets starting today until 10 a.m. on March 22.

WWDC is one of the biggest events in Apple’s calendar. It’s where the company showcases what’s to come with its software updates this fall. We’re expecting to see iOS 12, macOS 10.13.4, tvOS 12, and watchOS 5 previews — as well as an update for HomePod.

If we’re lucky, we’ll also see some updated hardware. Recent rumors have claimed that Apple could be planning a refresh for the MacBook Air, which is expected to get a Retina display (finally!) and a cheaper price tag. A new 9.7-inch iPad may also be in the pipeline.

Register for tickets today!

Developers can apply for tickets to WWDC 2018 starting today. The deadline is 10 a.m. on Thursday, March 22. Being first to register doesn’t guarantee you a ticket, however; Apple uses a lottery system to select attendees due to overwhelming demand for tickets every year.

To be eligible to apply, you’ll need to have been a member of the Apple Developer Program or the Apple Developer Enterprise Program as of March 13 at 10 a.m. Pacific. If you open an account now just to get a WWDC ticket, you’re going to get rejected.

Apple will start accepting scholarship applications on Monday, March 26. The company says that 350 scholarship tickets, which come with free accommodation, will be available to students and members of STEM organizations this year.

Apple press release: WWDC 2018

Cupertino, California — Apple today announced it will host its 29th annual Worldwide Developers Conference in San Jose from June 4 through June 8. The McEnery Convention Center will be home to the world’s most creative developer community, who come together every year to share unique perspectives and learn about the future of Apple’s breakthrough products and services.

Every year, WWDC provides an opportunity for millions of developers to learn more about how to create new experiences across Apple’s platforms for iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV, Mac and HomePod. A broad range of robust developer APIs, including SiriKit, HomeKit, HealthKit, GymKit, MusicKit, ResearchKit, and CoreML, give developers new ways to help users take command of everything from their health and homes, to how they get around, shop and learn. Last year at WWDC Apple debuted ARKit, and since then, developers with apps in every category on the App Store have embraced inventive ways to engage customers with virtual experiences overlaid in the real world.

The App Store is the most vibrant software marketplace in the world. Available in 155 countries across iOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS and iMessage, the App Store gives Apple customers access to millions of apps to make their lives easier, enrich their passions and connect with people around the globe. Developers and Apple enthusiasts everywhere can live-stream the conference on the WWDC app for iPhone, iPad and Apple TV as well as through the Apple Developer website.
Developers can apply for tickets from now through March 22 at 10 a.m. PDT via the WWDC website. Tickets are issued through a random selection process, and developers will be notified of application status by March 23 at 5 p.m. PDT.

Students are an integral part of the Apple developer community. Up to 350 WWDC Student Scholarships are available this year, providing students and members of all STEM organizations an opportunity to earn a free ticket to WWDC. Students can now visit the WWDC website for details on how to apply.

Newsletters

Daily round-ups or a weekly refresher, straight from Cult of Mac to your inbox.

  • The Weekender

    The week's best Apple news, reviews and how-tos from Cult of Mac, every Saturday morning. Our readers say: "Thank you guys for always posting cool stuff" -- Vaughn Nevins. "Very informative" -- Kenly Xavier.