This week I’ll be starting the public beta for LookUp 7.5, as the previous post details, it’s a massive internal update, with some user facing features. I wanted to take the time to share what’s on the agenda for this update.
Improved iCloud Sync:
One of the key reasons for switching to our new database system is to be able to better sync collections, liked words and quizzes across platforms (iOS, macOS and watchOS).
The app would still use iCloud sync, which is tied to the user’s iCloud account making the experience seamless on Apple platforms.
Better Extensions:
With the rewrite, one of the major benefits to this update is going to be a consistent and improved user experience across the extensions.
New iPad UI:
LookUp also plans to adopt the new Sidebar UI for iPadOS. The sidebar UI’s flattened navigational structure is ideal for both point and click and touch interfaces, utilising the screen real-estate better, while enabling a faster, more productive user interface.
More Results:
The results screen is also getting improvements, with a better support for the Oxford’s English Dictionary; and, the app will also include support for “phrases” when you search for a word.
For example, if you search for the word “eye”: the results screen will also point to phrases like “a twinkle in someone's eye”, “an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth”, “an eye for the main chance”, that the user can tap and look up.
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More Updates planned down the line:
These updates may not arrive with LookUp 7.5, but will be available soon.
Improvements to Word of the Day:
There’s a major word of the day update lined up; making them more accessible and dynamic. The app will also support new features such as the ability to test your knowledge of the week’s words of the day.
Notes:
Notes will allow the users to annotate definitions with text, images, sketches, and audio notes, to be able to personalise and better learn them.
Universal macOS App:
When macCatalyst first released, universal apps weren’t possible, and LookUp adopted a Multi app model. However, universal apps are much convenient and something that users have come to expect after their release in early 2020.
LookUp will also be switching to a universal app model, allowing users to buy the app on any platform and use it every where. I’ll share more details about the transition before the release.
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More updates and a link to join the beta for LookUp 7.5 will be released in the coming days.