WWDC 2025: iOS 26, 'Solarium' UI, Apple Intelligence
Source: tomsguide.com
Apple's Worldwide Developer Conference is geared toward software creators, but its announcements often attract a wider audience. WWDC 2025, scheduled for June 9 to June 13, may unveil a new look for Apple's software, aiming for a more unified user experience across devices.
Apple Intelligence, previously showcased at WWDC, is expected to return, with Apple seeking to revitalize its AI tools. New hardware is a possibility, but not a certainty. The event will commence with a keynote on June 9, outlining Apple's software plans.
Software Updates and Redesigns
WWDC typically previews upcoming software, and this year, a significant interface overhaul is anticipated for all of Apple's software. This change stems from a report that Apple intends to unify the look of its iPhone, iPad, and Mac operating systems.
The new design is expected to draw inspiration from visionOS, the software powering the Apple Vision Pro headset, potentially featuring rounded icons and translucent menus. Apps, windows, and system buttons may also adopt this new aesthetic, code-named Solarium. While initial focus was on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, watchOS and tvOS are also slated for updates.
The Solarium update could be impactful, especially for iPhone and iOS. While Apple's iPhone software has evolved, its last major redesign was with iOS 7. Redesigns can sometimes be met with mixed reactions.
Name Changes
Apple might be altering its software naming conventions. Instead of version numbers like iOS 18, macOS 15, and watchOS 11, Apple may adopt a year-based system starting with WWDC. Thus, iOS 19 could become iOS 26, aligning version numbers across platforms.
iOS 26
The iOS 26 update may include a feature to simplify Wi-Fi network logins by sharing details across Apple devices. There are also reports of an AI-powered feature to enhance battery life and predict charging times. Additionally, iPhones could gain a desktop mode, allowing connection to external displays via USB-C. iPadOS 26 may feature a Mac-like menu bar and improved Stage Manager for multitasking.
New Gaming App
A new gaming app may debut at WWDC 2025, potentially working across multiple platforms. This app could incorporate features from Game Center, such as leaderboards and friends lists, while also enabling game launches and promoting the Apple Arcade gaming service. Versions for iPads, Macs, and Apple TV are also likely.
Apple Intelligence
Apple is expected to continue its focus on AI, potentially refining existing features. There are features from the previous WWDC that have yet to be delivered, such as the redesigned Siri. Apple has acknowledged challenges in getting certain features to function consistently, with a release expected later this year. New features, such as AI-driven battery management and an AI-based health coaching tool, are also rumored.
Apple will reportedly provide developers with a tool to integrate Apple Intelligence features into apps.
Potential Hardware Announcements
Apple sometimes unveils hardware at WWDC. Any hardware at WWDC 2025 would likely target developers. A new Mac Pro, possibly with an M4 chip, could be introduced. If software advancements enable new hardware features, Apple might showcase related devices. A touch-screen HomePod has been rumored for 2025, while AirPods with integrated cameras could appear in 2026. There are also reports of smart glasses being developed as a Vision Pro successor, possibly arriving in 2026.