Apple is once again set to make waves in the tech world with its annual developer conference, WWDC 2025. The event, starting June 9th, marks a new beginning for developers and Apple fans worldwide. This year, Apple is attempting to redefine its identity.
Reports and leaks suggest Apple will skip iOS 19 and directly launch iOS 26 as its next operating system. Similarly, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS will also adopt this new naming convention. This change is believed to be part of Apple's effort to unify its 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 isn't 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 will be in the iOS versioning system. Reports indicate the company might skip iOS 19 and directly release the next version as iOS 26. This change will also be reflected in other operating systems. macOS, watchOS, tvOS, and iPadOS will all receive a unified numbering system, with all versions launching with the number "26".
This move is considered a significant change by Apple, bringing uniformity and clarity to the OS versions across devices. Until now, each operating system updated according to its own timeline and version number, causing confusion. However, iOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, and tvOS 26 will now share a common identity.
A Strong Infusion of AI 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 may gain features like multitasking capabilities, personalized responses, and improved translation. Apple Intelligence could also showcase automation tools, smart shortcuts, and generative AI tools on iPhones and Macs.
Apple's New Gaming App
Apple isn't overlooking gamers. At WWDC 2025, the company might introduce a new gaming app offering cross-platform support on iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple TVs. Currently referred to as "Game Center," this app is rumored to feature an improved interface, real-time friends lists, leaderboards, and enhanced multiplayer experiences.
This move is particularly beneficial for users who enjoy gaming on both mobile and console platforms and desire a synchronized experience.
A New Look for 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. The new VisionOS is expected to include a more interactive UI, better support for third-party apps, and hand gesture controls.
A Possible Glimpse of the iPhone 17 Air
While this event is primarily software-focused, rumors suggest Apple might share some information about its upcoming iPhone 17 Air. This model is expected 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 about 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 key objective 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 provide developers with greater control and ease in app design, coding, and testing. New APIs and SDKs will also facilitate the creation of innovative apps for iPhones, iPads, and Macs.
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, better support for widgets, and more customization options. iPhone and iPad users may gain more freedom on their home screens, allowing for greater personalization.