Apple is poised to once again generate significant buzz in the tech world with its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025. This event, commencing on June 9th, will mark a new beginning for developers and Apple enthusiasts globally. A key highlight this year is Apple's apparent effort to redefine its brand identity.
Reports and leaks suggest that Apple will skip iOS 19 and directly launch the next operating system as iOS 26. This new naming convention will also extend to iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS. This change is believed to be a move towards unifying the company's entire software ecosystem.
WWDC 2025: When and Where?
WWDC 2025 begins on June 9th, 2025, and will be held virtually. The event will stream in India from 10:30 PM onwards. This annual event showcases Apple's strategy, software, development tools, and upcoming features. WWDC is not just an event; it's a blueprint for the future Apple plans to implement in the coming years.
iOS Gets a New Name and Identity
The most surprising change at WWDC 2025 is expected in iOS's versioning system. Reports indicate that the company might skip iOS 19 and directly release the next version as iOS 26. This shift will be mirrored across other operating systems. macOS, watchOS, tvOS, and iPadOS will all adopt a uniform numbering system, with all versions launching with the number "26".
This move represents a significant change from Apple, aiming for consistency and clarity across device OS versions. Previously, each operating system updated according to its timeline and version number, leading to confusion. Now, iOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, and tvOS 26 will share a unified identity.
Significant AI Infusion in Apple Intelligence and Siri
Apple is integrating artificial intelligence more deeply into its ecosystem. At WWDC 2025, the company may introduce smart features under a new initiative called Apple Intelligence. Siri will be enhanced with AI, making it more natural, intelligent, and context-aware.
Siri might gain features like multitasking capabilities, personalized responses, and improved translation. Apple Intelligence may also showcase automation tools, smart shortcuts, and generative AI tools for iPhone and Mac.
Apple's New Gaming App
Apple isn't overlooking gamers. WWDC 2025 might see the unveiling of a new gaming app offering cross-platform support across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV. Currently rumored to be called "Game Center," it's expected to feature an improved interface, real-time friends lists, leaderboards, and enhancements to the multiplayer experience.
This move particularly caters to users who enjoy gaming on both mobile and console devices and desire a synchronized experience.
Revamped VisionOS
Apple's mixed-reality platform, VisionOS, is also slated for an update at WWDC 2025. This new OS version for the Vision Pro device could significantly enhance the user experience. Expected features include a more interactive UI, improved support for third-party apps, and hand gesture controls.
Potential First Glimpse of iPhone 17 Air
While primarily a software-focused event, rumors suggest Apple might share some details about its upcoming iPhone 17 Air. This model is anticipated to be Apple's thinnest and lightest iPhone series yet.
Although there's no official confirmation from Apple, there's considerable excitement in the tech world surrounding this model. The iPhone 17 Air is expected to launch towards the end of 2025, but a teaser or initial details might be revealed at WWDC.
New and Smart Tools for Developers
A central aim of WWDC 2025 is to equip developers with new technologies and tools to create better and more advanced apps. This year, Apple is expected to launch new versions of SwiftUI and Xcode, significantly simplifying and accelerating machine learning (ML) and augmented reality (AR) app development. These new tools will offer developers greater control and ease in app design, coding, and testing. New APIs and SDKs will also facilitate the creation of innovative apps for iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
New Interface, New Experience
According to Bloomberg's renowned tech journalist Mark Gurman, Apple plans a significant visual overhaul across all its operating systems at WWDC 2025. Users can expect a new icon style, more animations, enhanced widget support, and increased customization options. iPhone and iPad users may enjoy greater freedom in personalizing their home screens.