Apple will kick off its much-anticipated developers conference on June 9th, with noteworthy software updates expected to be unveiled. This year, the company is set to present major upgrades, including iOS 19, macOS 16, iPadOS 19, watchOS 12, visionOS 3, and tvOS 19, maintaining its tradition of mid-year announcements for software enhancements.
### Increased Stakes This Year
This year’s conference comes with heightened expectations surrounding Apple’s approach to artificial intelligence. With its prior oversights compared to Google’s Android and various challenges related to Apple Intelligence, there is significant curiosity about how Apple plans to address these issues.
Reports from Bloomberg indicate that Apple will take a more measured approach in announcing features. Rather than ambitious goals, the focus will shift to delivering experiences that can be implemented on schedule, refining the efforts that were not realized with the previous version, iOS 18. Here’s what to potentially expect at WWDC 2025.
### Revamped Visual Identity
Aesthetic updates appear to be a key focus across Apple’s software ecosystem this year. Following Google’s introduction of Material 3 Expressive at its recent I/O 2025 event, Apple seems poised to roll out a similar visual enhancement at this year’s conference.
In a report, Bloomberg outlined that the upcoming redesign will fundamentally alter the appearance of Apple’s operating systems, fostering greater consistency across its software platforms. This extensive overhaul is anticipated to incorporate new designs for apps, icons, and windows.
The design inspiration reportedly stems from VisionOS, the OS crafted for Apple’s Vision Pro XR headset. Enhancements aim to streamline user navigation and prioritize easy access to essential controls. Users can expect the most significant redesign since iOS 17 was launched in 2013, featuring more rounded icons, transparent UI elements, and smoother transitions.
### iPadOS to Infuse Mac Features
Traditionally, iPadOS has been seen as somewhat restrictive, particularly for devices utilizing the same powerful M-series processors as Macs. The current iteration resembles a stretched version of iOS, with a few enhanced productivity tools.
Many users have called for a dual-boot capability with macOS, though that may not be on the horizon. Nonetheless, shifts in iPadOS 19 appear to respond to user feedback, promising improvements in multitasking and window management to elevate productivity. According to Bloomberg, the next version will introduce a macOS-like menu bar, enhancing the multitasking functionality when using accessories such as the Magic Keyboard.
### Advanced Health Features
Apple has long been a leader in health technology; however, increasing competition from brands like Huawei has prompted the company to aim for a renewed focus on innovation in this area. Under the project name “Project Mulberry,” Apple reportedly plans extensive revisions to its Health app, which will include the launch of an AI health coach.
This new service, powered by a specialized AI agent, is designed to simulate medical guidance similar to that of an actual physician. Bloomberg noted that while AI health suggestions aren’t new, Apple’s plan is distinctive in that it involves a dedicated team of healthcare professionals to help develop the AI coach, alongside video content for user education.
### Practical AI Integrations
Currently, Apple’s AI capabilities, which are part of the Apple Intelligence suite, have lagged behind competitors. Missteps with features like AI summarization and reliance on ChatGPT to enhance Siri’s functionality have contributed to the scrutiny. As a result, Apple is expected to debut practical AI features during WWDC 2025, including an AI-driven health management tool that focuses on extending iPhone battery life.
This enhancement aims to analyze device usage patterns and adjust energy consumption accordingly, potentially prolonging battery longevity. Moreover, the AI integration will also extend to nutrition planning, utilizing camera feeds to assist users during workouts by providing real-time feedback.
### Future of Siri
Apple is reportedly facing delays in revamping Siri to achieve a more generative AI experience akin to Google’s latest offerings. Challenges in transitioning from the older architecture to a more advanced model have been noted, with the new version of Siri—currently in development as “LLM Siri”—still at least a year away from launch.
To compensate for this, Apple is considering partnerships with competitors like Google to incorporate innovative systems, allowing third-party developers access to its AI frameworks. This move aims to improve the integration of virtual assistants across various applications.
### Hardware Developments on the Horizon
While hardware announcements may not dominate this year’s developers conference, Apple is expected to showcase its upcoming M5 silicon, which will power a new array of tablets and Macs. Anticipation grows for the iPhone 17 lineup, alongside a potential introduction of a lighter “iPhone Air” model. Discussions around the introduction of smart glasses have been circulating, yet it seems unlikely that they will appear during the upcoming event.
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Apple’s WWDC 2025 promises to be a pivotal moment, filled with key software advancements and fresh features, as the company positions itself to adapt in an ever-competitive technological landscape.
