Swift 3.1 Improves Language, Package Manager, and Linux Implementation

Staying true to its plan, the recently announced Swift 3.1 is source compatible with Swift 3.0. Still, it includes a number of changes to the language, the standard library, and improved Linux implementation.

Apple Plans to Develop a Fully Custom GPU Architecture

Apple will develop its own custom graphics architecture to power the GPUs for its future devices, according to UK-based firm Imagination Technologies, Apple’s current GPU provider. The new GPUs should be ready in 15 months to two years’ time and will be the first Apple-made GPUs that will bear no resemblance to Imagination Technologies’.

Apple TestFlight Now Supports A/B Testing of iOS Apps

With its recent update to TestFlight, Apple has introduced a number of features, such as multiple builds and enhanced groups, that make it possible to do A/B testing for iOS apps.

Amazon Improves Beta Testing for Alexa Skills

Amazon has announced a new testing tool to allow developers to make their Alexa skills available to closed groups of beta testers before they are published.

Amazon Lex Now Generally Available to Enable Conversational Interfaces

Amazon Lex, the platform behind Amazon Alexa, is now generally available to create voice-powered chatbots and mobile, web, and desktop apps.