Apple’s WWDC 2025 brought substantial updates, spotlighting the company’s latest operating systems: iOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, macOS 26, and iPadOS 26. These new versions are named to reflect the year they are primarily intended for use, marking a significant shift in Apple’s branding approach. Notably, the event culminated with a strong emphasis on the iPad, showcasing enhancements designed to elevate its functionality and user experience.
### iPadOS 26: Enhanced Functionality
iPadOS 26 introduces a revamped windowing system that greatly improves multitasking capabilities, allowing users to seamlessly switch between multiple applications. A new context-sensitive menu bar will adapt according to the application currently in use, further enhancing usability. This reimagining of the iPad positions it as more than just an oversized iPhone; it now resembles a lightweight Mac, particularly when paired with a keyboard and trackpad.
Moreover, iPadOS 26 features its own iteration of the Preview app found in macOS, enabling users to view PDFs effectively. Additionally, the Files app has been upgraded to offer greater functionality, mirroring the experience users expect from Finder on macOS. Craig Federighi, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Software Engineering, expressed considerable enthusiasm during the keynote, highlighting iPadOS 26 as “the biggest iPadOS release ever.” Interestingly, no new hardware announcements accompanied the software updates, leaving many hopeful for hardware advancements such as an upgraded HomePod.
### The Role of Apple Intelligence
The keynote presentation sparked curiosity regarding the status of Apple Intelligence, which appeared to have taken a backseat during this event. Initially, there was a brief recap addressing the features integrated into Apple products over the past year, including Genmoji, Writing Tools, and Notification Summaries. However, these mentions faded into the background as the session progressed.
Apple Intelligence was acknowledged throughout the event, underpinning some notable features—such as the new Visual Intelligence functionality available during screenshot captures, or helpful suggestions for group chat polls. Despite this, Apple Intelligence, once seen as an innovative addition, has now integrated itself into the overall ecosystem rather than standing out. There was no discourse surrounding a completely AI-driven Siri or any groundbreaking advancements, though several minor features—like Live Translation and improved Shortcuts—were unveiled.
### AI Context: A Shifting Landscape
In the broader technological landscape, the excitement surrounding artificial intelligence continues to surge, fueled by the rapid advancements presented by companies like OpenAI and Google. As these firms expand AI capabilities, questions arise about the demand for similar features in Apple’s Mac, iPad, and iPhone products. Despite Apple’s various AI features rolled out over the last year, user engagement with them appears minimal. Personal experience reflects a similar sentiment, as the supposed utility of features like Genmoji and Notification Summaries often does not translate into everyday use.
While there is a strong appreciation for the capabilities offered by services such as Google’s and OpenAI’s applications, which maximize AI’s potential for natural language interaction and efficient task management, Apple’s attempts seem to lag behind. The struggle of Apple Intelligence to gain traction may suggest a more cautious approach toward user preferences in AI technology.
### New Opportunities for Developers
One notable revelation from WWDC 2025 is that Apple plans to make its Foundation AI Models Framework accessible to developers for the first time. Although this announcement may not seem immediately impactful, it possesses the potential to radically change the way AI can be incorporated into applications. With this framework, developers are empowered to create on-device AI features that might lead to innovative, user-centered applications moving forward.
This decision could be a pivotal moment for Apple, especially as concerns arise about its position in the AI space. By opening its AI capabilities to the developer community, Apple not only broadens the horizon for creative applications but may also restore confidence among investors and stakeholders regarding its technological advancements.
### Conclusion
Despite the mixed reception for Apple Intelligence, the enhancements showcased in iPadOS 26 illustrate Apple’s commitment to evolving its user experience. The conference underscored the dual challenge: addressing AI integration while continuously refining their operating systems to meet the needs of today’s users. The future may hold exciting developments, particularly as the world leans more into AI, with Apple strategically positioning itself to stay relevant in an ever-changing technological landscape.
