WWDC 2025: What to Expect from Apple’s Annual Developer Conference
Apple’s highly anticipated annual developer conference, WWDC 2025, is set to commence at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET on Monday. Following last year’s focus on artificial intelligence (AI), the tech giant faces increasing expectations to deliver substantial advancements and innovations this year.
Major Software Announcements on the Horizon
WWDC 2025 will predominantly spotlight software updates and emerging technologies, most notably the anticipated release of the next iteration of iOS. Reports suggest that this upcoming version may introduce the most transformative design changes since iOS 7. As speculation surrounds whether this will be termed iOS 19 or iOS 26, Apple is set to unveil much more beyond just its flagship operating system.
A Revolutionary Design for iOS
Apple’s previous significant overhaul of iOS in 2013 transitioned the interface from a skeuomorphic style to a more minimalist approach under the guidance of then chief design officer Jony Ive. Current reports indicate that a similar transformation could arrive with the next iOS version, which may draw inspiration from visionOS, the operating system behind Apple’s innovative spatial computing headset, the Vision Pro.
If these reports hold true, users might experience a visually stunning interface featuring transparent designs and circular app icons, deviating from the traditional rectangular format. This redesign could extend across Apple’s entire ecosystem, including CarPlay, ensuring a seamless user experience across devices.
Shift in Naming Conventions for iOS
In a significant change, Apple is rumored to transition its iOS naming system to a year-based format. Instead of launching iOS 19, the next version could be branded as iOS 26, paralleling similar updates to other operating systems such as adOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26.
AI Developments: A Cautious Approach
While AI innovations were a highlight at WWDC 2024, Apple may take a more tempered approach this year. Despite previous promises of advanced AI capabilities—many of which remain unfulfilled—Apple has introduced several tools, including Image Playground, Genmoji, and more. However, enhancements to Siri, designed to provide personalized responses and actions across applications, continue to face delays.
This year, reports suggest that Apple aims to bolster its AI features by collaborating with external entities like OpenAI. During WWDC, the company might introduce support for diverse AI chatbots. Given Jony Ive’s partnership with Sam Altman on a new AI hardware device, Apple is under increasing pressure to accelerate its AI advancements.
Health App Enhancements with AI
Additionally, Apple’s Health app may soon integrate AI technology, potentially offering a health chatbot and personalized insights tailored to user data. Other applications, such as Messages, are expected to receive AI-powered functionality, including translation features and AI-generated suggestions for interactive polls.
Exciting Features for Gaming and Other Updates
According to corroborated reports, Apple is developing a dedicated gaming app to replace the aging Game Center. This new platform may provide users access to Apple Arcade’s extensive game library, alongside features like leaderboards and friend challenges. The app might also integrate with iMessage and FaceTime to enhance social gaming experiences.
Broader Operating System Updates
Beyond the iOS redesign, Apple’s other operating systems are expected to see updates as well. For example, macOS may adopt the new gaming app and include features for updated AirPods, which are rumored to receive enhancements for live translations and additional gesture controls. Furthermore, Apple TV users could anticipate visual and user interface improvements, coupled with the new gaming app and expanded functionalities.
No Major Hardware Launches Expected
Despite the exciting software developments, speculation surrounding new hardware announcements appears limited. Sources indicate that Apple currently lacks new devices ready for release, although surprises could always emerge. Reports suggest a potential announcement regarding spatial controllers for the Vision Pro, designed for three-dimensional interactions, which may be revealed during the event.
Additionally, Apple was previously rumored to be developing a smart home tablet with features such as voice control and video calling, initially expected to launch in March 2025, but has yet to be officially announced.
Conclusion
As WWDC 2025 unfolds, Apple’s announcements are set to reshape the user experience across its platforms, promising exciting advancements in software design and functionality. For the latest updates and live coverage, tune into the keynote livestream to see what Apple has in store.
