Apple’s is getting ready to make some big announcements at this year’s WWDC event and so far, it all seems about visual refinement. Unlike the previous two years, when Apple was solely focused on the Vision Pro headset (2023) and Apple Intelligence AI suite (2024), WWDC 2025 is expected to be all about a refreshed new user interface for Apple’s entire ecosystem.
Along with a new design language for all its software platforms, Apple has plans to rename its software products, with the biggest shock being the release of iOS 26 instead of iOS 19. Apple Intelligence features are expected to make their way to the Apple Watch this year but no major additions to the Apple Intelligence feature suite may take place. Additionally, Apple may also bring refinements to its gaming app on the OS platforms.
Other than the software products, Apple may also come up with some hardware launches. The rumours mostly surround a new smart home device with an iPad-like screen built to succeed the HomePod. A couple of new Macs are also expected to make their way with the next-gen Apple M5 chip.
Here’s everything that we expect from the Apple WWDC 2025 event next week.
WWDC 2025 date and time
The WWDC 2025 will begin with the official keynote on June 9 at 10 AM PT (10:30 PM is IST) and will continue until June 13. The keynote will be livestreamed via Apple’s official YouTube channel as well as via the Apple TV app.
iOS 26, macOS 26, iPadOS 26…
In a bold new move, Apple is rumoured to do a name change for its software platforms at this year’s WWDC 2025. The successor to iOS 18 is now expected to be called iOS 26. Similarly, the rest of the platforms will catch on the ‘26’ nomenclature in a bid to relate the releases with the corresponding year. Hence, we could be getting macOS 26, iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, visionOS 26 and tvOS 26.
Other than the new names, the software platforms are likely to adopt a new design language, expected to be called Solaris. The new design theme will bring glass-like visual elements along with a clean look inspired from visionOS. The interface update is hailed as the first big update since iOS 7 from over a decade ago.
A lowly year for Apple Intelligence
After last year’s big focus on Apple Intelligence, Apple is expected to spread its AI features while focusing on the undelivered promises from last year. Some new features are expected to make their way to the AI suite on iPhones and Macs, but all of them are expected to be underwhelming. Apple could release Apple Intelligence for the Apple Watch ecosystem, thus adding smarter capabilities to the smartwatches.
The Apple Watch ecosystem is also expected to get advanced AI insights into health, thus adding more value to those who care for fitness. There is a possibility that Apple may offer these AI insights as part of a new Health paid subscription, similar to how Google offers Fitbit Premium for its Wear OS watches.
Instead of announcing any new star AI feature, Apple is expected to utilise its Apple Intelligence suite for boosting battery on iPhones, Macs and other devices. AI will analyse the usage patterns and optimise various parameters accordingly to boost battery life, which could of crucial help to iPhone and Apple Watch users.
Time to focus on gaming
Rumours also suggest that Apple could revise the Game Center app by evolving it into a hub for all its gaming applications – multi-device and platform leaderboards, stats and integration with Apple Arcade. There could also be support for newer gaming controllers for the Apple Vision Pro headset.
New smart home device with a display
Apple is also expected to come up with a new smart home device at the WWDC event. Previous leaks have hinted at this device being an iPad-lookalike mated to a HomePod-like speaker. The device will rely on an in-built battery, thus allowing it to be untethered, unlike its competitors. A new OS could offer a simplified interface and greater integration with smart home devices.
And new Macs too
WWDC has always been the launchpad of next-gen Mac hardware. Apple could utilise the WWDC 2025 stage for revealing the next-gen M5 chipset and a couple of new Macs to debut them.
