Apple is gearing up for a major shake-up across its entire software lineup — from the iPhone and Mac to the Vision Pro. In what could be its most comprehensive platform update in years, Apple plans to advance all its major operating systems to version “26,” regardless of their current numbering, according to Bloomberg. This unified leap signals a broader evolution across the Apple ecosystem. However, despite the scale of the changes, the updates may appear more refined than radical when they’re unveiled at WWDC25 on June 9 at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET.
What to Expect at WWDC25 on June 9: Software Overhaul, AI, and Maybe More
Apple is preparing a sweeping refresh of its software ecosystem—spanning iPhones, Macs, iPads, the Vision Pro, and even the Apple Watch. According to Bloomberg, every major operating system will jump to version “26,” signaling a unified step forward, regardless of the current version number. This marks Apple’s most comprehensive software overhaul in years, but the updates themselves may feel more evolutionary than revolutionary when they’re unveiled at WWDC25 on June 9 at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET.
Refinements Over Flash: What iOS 26 Might Look Like
Don’t expect anything radically different from what we saw with iOS 18. While last year’s update introduced customizable widgets and app icons, iOS 26 is expected to build on those foundations—possibly through a new “bubble”-style interface that leans into more fluid UX elements. Apple’s conservative approach to UI redesigns means this update will likely feel more polished than flashy—especially when compared to Android 16’s bold Material You refresh.
Small Platforms, Subtle Changes
Smaller platforms like tvOS, CarPlay, and watchOS are also in for aesthetic and functional tweaks. The Apple Watch may receive a refreshed interface alongside new health and fitness tools. However, the much-rumored “AI Doctor,” a feature designed to analyze biometric data for deeper health insights, may not be ready for prime time just yet.
Meanwhile, iPadOS might finally become a stronger productivity platform. Recent leaks hint that multitasking could improve beyond the current Stage Manager, possibly pulling in more Mac-like capabilities.
Messages, Music, and Mac: Minor Upgrades and a Major Menu Bar Revamp
While the changes might not be groundbreaking, some app updates are worth noting. Messages could gain built-in text translation, similar to what Samsung devices have offered for years. Apple Music might finally show album art directly on your Lock Screen while playing music.
As for the Mac, macOS 26, rumored to be called “Tahoe,” will debut a fresh visual identity under the internal “Solarium” redesign. Expect a revamped menu bar, see-through window elements, and “pop-out” menus—a consistent theme across platforms. Additionally, Apple is bringing customizable widgets for weather, stocks, and calendars, as well as a new version of the Preview app, which may finally arrive on iPhones and iPads.
AI: Scaling Back, Partnering Up
Apple once promised a bold AI transformation—centered around “Apple Intelligence” and a much smarter Siri—but that vision has been scaled back. After a year of underwhelming results, Apple is reportedly looking to expand its partnerships beyond OpenAI. Names like Anthropic (makers of Claude) and Google (Gemini) are said to be in the mix, offering Apple users access to outside models directly within its ecosystem.
A few AI-powered features are still expected to debut:
- Live translations for calls and texts, displaying real-time subtitles.
- Genmoji, a feature that lets you blend emojis into custom hybrids.
- Limited third-party access to Apple’s own AI models for developers.
But don’t expect Siri’s full AI-powered makeover just yet—it’s now unlikely to arrive before 2026.
Gaming Gets a Spotlight
Apple could surprise everyone with a renewed push into gaming. Reports suggest a new gaming hub—potentially incorporating Apple Arcade and other native titles—is in the works. This app might include achievements, leaderboards, and a “Play Together” feature to encourage multiplayer experiences with friends.
Even more intriguing, visionOS 26 may expand support for third-party controllers, possibly even Sony’s PlayStation VR2 accessories. If Valve were to release a Steam Link app for the Vision Pro, Apple’s headset could become one of the best ways to experience high-end VR games like Half-Life: Alyx.
Don’t Expect iPhone 17—Yet
As usual, WWDC is all about software—and hardware announcements are unlikely. That means no early look at the iPhone 17, Apple Watch Series 11, or new AirPods. Those are expected to debut in the fall.
Still, the iPhone isn’t being ignored. iOS 26 is said to include:
- A revamped Camera app with a cleaner, simpler UI
- A unified Phone app that brings together recent calls, voicemails, and favorite contacts
- A new Preview app for quickly opening files and media
Final Thoughts
While WWDC25 may not deliver groundbreaking surprises, Apple seems focused on deepening the user experience through cohesive design updates, measured AI integration, and cross-platform refinements. And who knows? With Apple, there’s always the chance for a last-minute “one more thing.”
