Apple’s annual developer conference is just around the corner, and Worldwide Developers Conference for the 2025 promises to be a pivotal moment for the tech giant. Set to kick off on June 9, this year’s keynote carries extra weight as Apple attempts to regain its footing in the AI race while introducing some dramatic visual transformation co to its software ecosystem in over a decade, and its teaser “Sleek Peek” featuring a shimmering glass-like Apple logo with rainbow colours dancing through its translucent surface, hints at the dramatic visual transformation coming to iOSmacOS, and beyond.
Translucency everywhere you look
The most visually striking change coming to Apple’s platforms is a comprehensive design overhaul inspired by visionOS. This isn’t just a minor refresh, it’s being described as the biggest design transformation since iOS 7’s flat design revolution in 2013.Expect to see circular “squircle” icons, translucent window elements, and layered glass effects throughout the interface. The design language will create a more unified experience across iPhoneiPad, Mac, and Apple Watch, with each platform maintaining its unique characteristics while sharing common visual DNA.This glassmorphism approach isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s seemingly a strategic move to make Apple’s entire ecosystem feel more cohesive and modern, while subtly preparing users for future AR and mixed reality experiences where transparency and depth become crucial interface elements.
Numbers are out, years are in
Gone will the days of tracking iOS 19macOS 16, and watchOS 12. Apple is reportedly overhauling its entire naming convention, jumping straight to year-based branding. Instead of incremental version numbers, we’ll see iOS 26iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26 across the board.The logic behind this shift makes perfect sense. With Apple’s expanding ecosystem of devices and platforms, keeping track of different version numbers has become increasingly confusing for both developers and consumers. The year-based approach mirrors what Samsung did with its Galaxy S series, jumping from S10 to S20 in 2020.Why 26 instead of 25? Apple’s thinking ahead. Since these operating systems typically launch in September, they’ll be available for most of their lifecycle during 2026. Plus, the “26” branding sounds more futuristic, exactly what Apple needs as it tries to shift focus from its AI struggles to forward-looking innovation.
iOS 26 finally bring the desktop dreams to your pocket
The iPhone’s next major update focuses heavily on productivity and multitasking improvements. One of the most intriguing additions is a desktop mode that will let users connect their iPhone to external displays for presentations, content viewing, and even video editing , think Samsung DeX but with Apple’s signature polish.Battery life gets an AI boost with intelligent power management that learns your usage patterns and optimises performance accordingly. The Camera app is getting a streamlined interface with fewer visible options at first glance, relying more on gestures and taps to access advanced features.Live translation through AirPods Pro 2 will make international travel significantly easier, while enhanced Apple Intelligence integration promises more contextual assistance, though major AI breakthroughs remain on the horizon rather than immediate reality.
watchOS 26 finally gain some intelligence
The Apple Watch has been notably absent from Apple Intelligence features, but that changes this year. Watch users can expect message summaries, translation capabilities, and potentially even message composition assistance right from their wrist.Health and fitness features are getting more sophisticated AI-powered insights, though the rumoured comprehensive health subscription service appears to be delayed until 2026. The watch will also benefit from the new glass-inspired design language, making interactions feel more fluid and modern.
iPadOS 26 inching closer to laptop territory
iPad users have long complained that iPadOS doesn’t take full advantage of the hardware, especially on Pro models. Apple appears to be listening. The upcoming version promises significant improvements in three key areas: productivity, multitasking, and app window management.While specific details remain scarce, the focus seems to be making the iPad experience more Mac-like without completely abandoning the touch-first interface that makes tablets unique. Enhanced file management, better external display support, and more sophisticated multitasking could finally make the iPad Pro a true laptop replacement for more users.
macOS 26 to go for Tahoe’s mountain majesty
Apple’s desktop operating system gets both a new name and a fresh coat of paint. macOS Tahoe, named after the scenic California lake, will incorporate the same glassmorphism design language being applied across Apple’s platforms.The choice of Lake Tahoe as the naming inspiration is particularly apt , the lake is known for its crystal-clear waters that reflect the surrounding mountains, perfectly matching the transparent, layered aesthetic of the new interface design.
visionOS 26 is setting the stage for broader adoption
While the Vision Pro hasn’t achieved mainstream success, Apple isn’t giving up on spatial computing. The updated visionOS will likely include enhanced AI features that can recognise and interact with your environment through the headset’s cameras.Gaming capabilities are expected to improve significantly, with potential PlayStation VR 2 controller support and more developer-friendly tools. These improvements could lay the groundwork for a more affordable Vision Pro variant expected in the coming year.
Apple’s AI ambitions finally meet reality check
Perhaps most notably, WWDC 2025 represents Apple taking a measured approach to AI announcements. After last year’s premature Apple Intelligence preview led to credibility issues, the company is being more cautious about promising features that aren’t ready.The biggest AI-related news will be opening Apple’s Foundation Models to third-party developers, enabling more sophisticated AI integrations in apps. However, major projects like the redesigned Siri, ChatGPT competitor, and AI-powered health services remain in development for future releases.WWDC 2025 might not deliver the AI breakthrough many are hoping for, but it promises to lay crucial groundwork for Apple’s software future. The comprehensive design overhaul, unified naming strategy, and enhanced productivity features suggest Apple is playing a longer game, one that prioritises cohesion and user experience over flashy AI demos.
Hardware hopes remain mostly wishful thinking
Don’t expect major hardware announcements at WWDC 2025. Apple typically focuses on software at its developer conference, and this year appears to follow that pattern. However, there are whispers of a possible HomePod with a built-in display, essentially a smart home hub that combines Apple’s speaker technology with a touchscreen interface.This device would compete directly with Amazon’s Echo Show and Google’s Nest Hub, potentially featuring photo frame capabilities, smart home controls, and Siri integration optimised for household management.That’s all we expect Apple to uncover at June 9th’s keynote, but in typical Apple fashion, we can also expect a “One more thing.”
