Exploring App Clips and Their Features

Jan 23, 2025

WWDC Session: What's New in App Clips

Introduction to App Clips

  • Presented by Yang Jiang and Lu Ming from the App Clips team.
  • App Clip: A small part of an app for specific tasks that can be launched instantly. Enables fast, focused experiences and encourages full app downloads post-task.
  • Examples of App Clip Usage:
    • Fairy Games: Phoenix 2 game - launch from website via Safari banner.
    • TikTok: Video sharing via iMessage preview.
    • Panera Bread: Order food through Maps and Siri suggestions.
    • Honk: Touchless parking payment via QR code.
    • Primer AR Home Design: Try design elements in AR.

Key Topics Covered

1. App Clip Card in Safari and Safari View Controller

  • Smart App Banner: Use Apple iTunes app meta tag to show App Clip card in Safari/Safari View Controller.
  • New in iOS 15:
    • Configure meta tag to show full-sized App Clip card on web pages.
    • Opt-in by adding App Clip display key to meta tag set to card.
    • Benefits include enhanced promotion and direct launch from apps like Twitter.

2. Testing with Local Experiences

  • App Clip Card:
    • Displays App Clip’s title, subtitle, action, and header image.
    • Configurable in App Store Connect.
  • Local Experience:
    • Testing without registered experiences.
    • Launchable via QR code, NFC, etc.
    • Set up in Developer Settings; specify app details and header image.
    • Limitations: Not available in Maps, Siri, or Spotlight until registered.

3. App Clip Code

  • Introduction:
    • Visual code for real-world App Clip discovery.
    • Available from iOS 14.3.
    • Types: NFC integrated or scan only.
  • Customization:
    • Colors and App Clip logo.
    • Encourage logo display for new users.
  • Use Cases:
    • ARKit integration for immersive experiences.
  • Creation Tools:
    • App Clip Code Generator tool for customization.
    • App Store Connect for registered URLs.

Demonstrations

  • Lu Ming's Demos:
    • Full-sized App Clip card in third-party apps using Safari View Controller.
    • Generating App Clip codes with command-line tool and selecting templates.

Conclusion

  • Recap of App Clip features: App Clip card, local testing, App Clip code.
  • Encouragement to explore and create innovative App Clips.