iPhones & Widgets & Watches – Oh My!
I think we can all agree that Apple’s live stream reliability wasn’t the greatest, but the actual products: WOW. Here at Zillow we gathered around with bagels, then salivated and shouted at the screen as we watched the new iPhones, Watches and hotly anticipated capabilities unveiled.
Zillow team watching Apple event
The rumors have been flying for months and those of us on the mobile teams have been busy preparing. Even though we’ve been working on some iOS 8 prototypes since Hack Week 7 it’s always a blast to make it to the finish line.
“Bigger Than Bigger” iPhones
As rumored, Apple announced two new phones today: the iPhone 6 and the iPhone 6 Plus. We expect the two larger sizes (4.7 and 5.5), Retina HD display, improved performance and battery life will make home searching easier for our users than ever before. (And did you see those camera and video specs? Awesome).
Zillow Saved Search Custom Widget
For people searching for a home in hot markets and neighborhoods, minutes can matter. With iOS 8, we’re building a new saved search Widget to help home shoppers be among the first to know about new listings and price drops without having to open our app. Consumers will get messages right in the Notification Center, making it easy to get to their updates from the lock screen, home screen or from within any app.
The Watch
Recently we’ve also been busy adding support for Android Wear. In our latest Android release, we’ve made it easy to record notes on your favorite homes, get directions or find open houses nearby.
Now, we’re super-excited to start digging into the capabilities of Apple’s new Watch. We’re pretty psyched about the beauty of the device, the bands, and the capabilities! Personally, I’m coveting the 38mm Apple Watch Edition in Bright Red Leather with the 18-Karat Yellow Gold Buckle and the Simple face. I’m sure I’ll change my mind about 100 times before 2015 rolls around, though.
How do you think we should make home searches easier with the Apple Watch? We’d love to hear your ideas.