Apple WWDC 2025 Event Highlights: Tim Cook announces iOS 26, iPadOS 26, watchOS 26 and more

iOS 26 will bring enhanced Apple Intelligence capabilities, including a virtual wellness coach, real-time translation within Messages, and advanced battery management features. Although a complete revamp of Siri is said to be postponed, these additions signal a broader AI presence throughout the system—quietly improving functionality without overshadowing the refreshed interface.

Apple Intelligence played a major role in increasing the popularity of the iPhone 16 lineup. However, over six months later, the slow rollout of these AI features has frustrated many users and even led to legal challenges. Several industry experts suggest that Apple might reveal new partnerships with leading AI firms—like Google’s Gemini or Perplexity AI—to integrate their chatbots into its ecosystem.

In a few hours, Apple CEO Tim Cook will take the stage at Apple Park to speak to developers and members of the media gathered at the company’s headquarters. For those watching from home, the keynote will be livestreamed on Apple’s website and YouTube.

A recent report claims that visionOS 26 will expand compatibility with console controllers for the Vision Pro headset. When launching games that require a PlayStation or Xbox controller, users will receive a prompt to download them. The update will also support Made for iPhone (MFi) certified controllers for these titles.

An updated AirTag appears to be in development, though it’s uncertain whether Apple will reveal it during the WWDC 2025 keynote. Additionally, while Apple may have secured the trademark for homeOS, the possibility of the company debuting its much-anticipated smart home hub today remains purely speculative for now.

Just ahead of Apple’s keynote event kicking off at 10am PT (10:30pm IST), CEO Tim Cook shared a post on X (formerly Twitter) that reads, “See you soon #wwdc25!” The message is accompanied by a special hashmoji—a translucent heart—symbolizing the developer conference.

Apple is planning to introduce new gesture-based controls for its upcoming AirPods models. Users might soon be able to accept or reject calls with simple movements and even use their AirPods as a remote shutter to capture photos from a distance—perfect for group shots. These upgrades are likely to debut with the iOS 26 update later this year.

New code uncovered in Android 16 hints that Apple may be developing a feature to allow smooth eSIM transfers from iPhones to Android devices. While iPhone users can already move their eSIMs between Apple devices during setup, this upcoming change could make switching from iOS to Android just as effortless.

Apple’s upcoming visionOS 3 update may introduce a new “eye scrolling” feature. Currently, users of the Vision Pro headset interact through pinch gestures, but this update could revolutionize navigation by allowing users to scroll content using only their eye movements. The feature is expected to work seamlessly across various apps, potentially transforming how people explore and engage with content in mixed reality.

Tim Cook kicks off WWDC 2025 by connecting with young developers and honoring Apple legend Bill Atkinson for his pioneering work.

Apple’s AI strategy is taking the spotlight, while UI tweaks and OS enhancements remain in the background.

watchOS 26 is set to introduce new tracking tools specifically designed to enhance outdoor workouts.

tvOS 26 is expected to feature a VisionOS-inspired redesign along with new Apple Intelligence capabilities.

Apple AirPods are rumored to receive a new Live Translate feature, enabling real-time language translation during conversations.

iPadOS 26 is expected to introduce enhanced multitasking features, bringing the iPad experience closer to that of a Mac.

iOS 26 is set to introduce a sleek new look with polished, glass-inspired visuals and semi-transparent elements. This refined aesthetic will likely be seen across toolbars, app interfaces, and interactive controls, giving the iPhone a more modern and fluid appearance.

According to a report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple could introduce a significant visual overhaul with the iOS 26 update, dubbed the “Liquid Glass” interface. Gurman describes it as featuring translucent, glass-like panels, smooth motion effects, and a glossy aesthetic that makes menus, buttons, and toolbars appear to float on the screen.

AI is set to have a more prominent role in iOS 26. An intelligent battery management system powered by AI may enhance iPhone battery performance by learning and adapting to individual usage patterns.

The event’s keynote address is scheduled for June 9 at 10:00 AM Pacific Time (10:30 PM Indian Standard Time).

The new “Air” variant is expected to take the place of the current “Plus” model. According to insider leaks, the iPhone 17 Air will redefine smartphone design with an ultra-thin body just 5.5mm thick and a remarkably light weight of 146 grams.

One of the most eagerly awaited reveals is the launch of iOS 26. Sources indicate it will feature a major visual overhaul inspired by the design style of Apple Vision Pro.

The iPhone 17 Air is rumored to have a 6.6-inch display, while the iPhone 17 Pro may come with a 6.3-inch screen.