The first solid details about Apple's next mobile OS, iOS 8, have leaked on Chinese social media courtesy of a single, mysterious screenshot.
The picture turned up on Weibo, and has apparently corresponded to information held by 9to5mac and others.
The screenshot - which is apparently of an early version of iOS 8 and visually identical to iOS 7 save for some new icons - is totally unconfirmed.
It shows icons for new apps including Preview and TextEdit, reportedly designed to make opening documents easier from iCloud. It also includes a new 'Tips' icon and the first look at 'Healthbook', the widely-reported app designed to sit alongside Apple's again-theoretical wearable device.
Some of these icons seem very rough and "un-iOS" leading us to think they are either placeholders or otherwise early versions that do not reflect the final product.
Here's what we're expecting from iOS 8:
Design:
After the revolution that was iOS 7 and its new 'flattened' aesthetic - and the associated tears, angst and woe that went along with its adoption - we'd be amazed if Apple did anything as drastic this time around. Details are scant, but we'd be looking to see a tightened, freshened-up version of iOS 7 in the new version of the OS, perhaps with a few new icons and tricks but nothing too crazy.
It's possible that Apple will allow for more animated or updating App icons too, though don't expect to see any major homescreen customisation options added - and certainly not 'widget' support. Apple has always maintained tight control over its homescreen and that will continue.
Siri:
There are lots of rumours that Siri will get a big update in iOS 8, including allowing third-party developers to integrate more closely into the voice control service.
Healthbook:
With Apple reportedly exploring options for its first 'wearable' computer release, which will likely be focused around fitness and health, we're expecting to see a new app called 'Healthbook' included in iOS 8 which will bring together festures like a pedometer, heartrate monitor and more into a single, iOS optimised interface.
Maps:
Apple Maps were ridiculed when the company first switched from using Google Maps to its own system. But now that's pretty much calmed down. Yes, in part that's just because you can now use Google Maps instead via a separate app, but it's also a reflection that Apple Maps are now pretty decent. Expect improvements in iOS 8 to include better options for public transport, and potentially advancements in Augmented Reality information overlays and indoor maps (though that seems like a stretch).
Mobile Payments:
The Wall Street Journal reports that Apple wants to build a new payments system using the fingerprint scanner in the iPhone 5S. Exactly how this would work and roll out to retailers remains to be seen, though.