Apple Announces Swift Student Challenge Ahead of WWDC 2027

Apple today announced the Swift Student Challenge for 2027, with submissions set to be accepted from February 8 to February 28, 2027. The Swift Student Challenge is an annual contest that gives young developers worldwide a chance to show off their creativity and app development skills by creating an app. Apple says students should submit an app built in Xcode or Swift Playground that can be experienced within three minutes. Students can submit an app for any platform this year, which is new. In prior years, apps were designed for iOS devices. Ahead of the contest, Apple is offering students tutorials and Meet with Apple online sessions to learn new coding intelligence features and get inspiration for their projects. There are also Develop in Swift tutorials covering Swift UI, AI and machine learning, and spatial computing. Apple will select winners who "demonstrate excellence in innovation, creativity, social impact, or inclusivity." A group of Distinguished Winners will be invited to Apple Park in Cupertino, California to attend Apple's WWDC 2027 event. Rules and eligibility details can be found on the Swift Student Challenge website. Apple hasn't announced dates for WWDC 2027, but the event is typically held in June. In 2027, Apple will announce iOS 28, iPadOS 28, macOS 28, and other '28 software updates. Popular StoriesApple Taking New Approach to Developing iOS 28 and macOS 28Apple has made a change to its development process for iOS 28, macOS 28, and corresponding software updates, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. In his Power On newsletter today, he said Apple separates development of each year's new operating systems into three major stages. Typically, he said each stage consists of four weeks of coding followed by a four-week "convergence" period where...Apple Launching Two More New Products This FridayMonday November 9, 2026 4:22 am PST by Tim HardwickThe Apple launches keep coming! The company is set to release two new products on Friday, November 13: the all-new Apple HomeView and the fourth-generation Apple TV 4K, both of which have been available to pre-order since mid-October. Apple HomeView: Apple's new smart home display, powered by Apple Intelligence with Siri AI, for entertainment and managing the home. Available in tabletop and...More Fun iPhone Duo Apps: 30 New Picks to TryFriday November 6, 2026 3:27 pm PST by Juli CloverWhen the iPhone Duo launched, we shared a list of some of the fun apps developers created for the new form factor. Two weeks out, developers are continuing to come up with fresh ideas, so we thought we'd share some of our favorites. Games Marbles Unhinged ($2.99) - Marbles Unhinged is a marble maze designed for the Duo. When you fold it, the floor turns into a ramp. If you stand the top...