Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025 is generating considerable buzz, with expectations high for a major software reveal. The event, kicking off on June 9th, is anticipated to showcase a revamped iOS, potential productivity enhancements, and further integration of AI across Apple's ecosystem. Here's a breakdown of what industry experts and leaks suggest we might see.
A significant shift is expected in Apple's software naming convention. Instead of the anticipated iOS 19, the next iteration is likely to be called iOS 26, aligning with the year of its broader release. This change is expected to extend across all of Apple's operating systems, including macOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and tvOS, creating a more unified and coherent brand identity.
Perhaps the most anticipated aspect of WWDC 2025 is the rumored iOS redesign. Codenamed "Solarium," this overhaul aims to bring a more consistent and modern aesthetic across Apple's product lines, drawing inspiration from the translucent, "digital glass" look of visionOS. This could manifest as translucent menus, rounded icons, and pill-shaped buttons, creating a layered, glassy effect. The goal is to provide a unified design language across all Apple platforms.
Beyond aesthetics, iOS 26 may introduce practical improvements. An AI-powered battery management feature is rumored, analyzing user habits to optimize power consumption. The Shortcuts app might also receive an AI boost, enabling users to create more complex actions with natural language. Leaks also suggest a pre-installed "Preview" app for iOS and iPadOS, offering robust PDF management and annotation capabilities.
Productivity enhancements are expected, especially for iPadOS 26. Apple is reportedly working on features to make the iPad experience more Mac-like, including improved multitasking, expanded window management, and potentially a Mac-like menu bar when connected to a Magic Keyboard.
Apple is also expected to open up access to its foundational AI models, allowing third-party developers to integrate AI features into their apps. The Health app may gain AI-powered insights and personalized suggestions. iMessage could see new AI features such as translation and polls with AI-generated suggestions. AirPods might also get a live-translate feature for real-time conversation translation.
Several smaller, but welcome, enhancements are rumored for core apps. The Messages app may gain automatic translation and user-created polls, while Apple Music could see full-screen animated album artwork on the Lock Screen. Apple Notes may finally get the ability to export notes in Markdown.
While the focus is primarily on software, some hardware announcements are possible. A redesigned Mac Pro, a 'HomePad' smart display, and AirTag 2 have been mentioned as potential surprises. However, some sources suggest that WWDC 2025 will be a software-only affair, with new hardware saved for later events.
Overall, WWDC 2025 is shaping up to be a significant event for Apple, with a focus on a unified design language, productivity enhancements, and the integration of AI across its ecosystem. While some ambitious AI projects may be delayed, the emphasis on a more cohesive and polished user experience could set the stage for bigger things to come.
