Apple’s WWDC25 is just around the corner, and the leaks are heating up. From smarter AI to a bold new interface, here’s what to expect.
Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference is almost here. It’s that time when the company hypes up developers and users about what’s next. This year might be a bit trickier, though. AI has thrown a few curveballs, and tariffs could push prices up. Apple Intelligence made a flashy debut, and while I like the direction, let’s be honest—every AI move Apple makes still feels like it’s playing catch-up with Google. Now, what are the WWDC25 rumors saying?
Besides fresh upgrades to Apple Intelligence, you’ll probably see a brand-new software interface and visual style across devices. Apple also wants the iPad’s system to work more like the Mac’s. More power, better flow. So let’s dive in and see what’s ahead.
When is WWDC25?
Apple shared the dates for WWDC2025 without making a big deal. This year, the conference runs from June 9 to 13. It kicks off with the keynote on day one—that’s when Apple shows off its latest software and fresh new products.
The whole event takes place online again, sticking with the format Apple’s followed for a few years now. Still, a few parts of it, like the keynote and the developer-focused State of the Union, will have some in-person segments. Those happen at Apple Park.
Apple picked attendees for the on-site events through a random selection. Only a limited number of people get the chance to be there in person. They’ll head to Apple’s headquarters and get a first look at what’s new.
Even though most of us will tune in from home, the buzz around the event never fades. It’s a huge week for Apple fans, especially developers looking to see what tools and updates are on the way.
1. Say goodbye to codenames, hello to years
Apple’s changing how it names its operating systems. Instead of using version numbers, the Cupertino company is switching to years. So, iOS 19 will become iOS 26. You’ll also see iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26 show up next.
This idea isn’t brand new. Microsoft did something similar in the ’90s with Windows 95, then followed up with Windows 98 and Windows 2000. But here’s the twist—Apple plans to use the upcoming year, not the current one. Even though these updates will drop in 2025, they’ll carry a 2026 name.
2. Consistent software interface across Apple devices
Apple’s cooking up a major software refresh, and it might be the most ambitious one yet. The company wants to give the iPhone, iPad, and Mac a more consistent feel across the board. WWDC25 rumors claim this revamp touches just about everything—icons, menus, apps, windows, and even the buttons.
Honestly, I’ve been waiting for something like this, especially for macOS. It’s fallen behind the rest, and I’ve wanted more from it for a while. Not just a design tweak—but real improvements that make each operating system shine in its own way.
The Mac could use more control and flexibility. Before switching, I used browser tools like uBlock Origin and SurferSEO on my PC. Safari? Doesn’t support them, and the alternatives just don’t match up. I’ve missed that kind of control.
On iOS, I’ve tried switching keyboards, but they all feel the same. Android gave me more options. SwiftKey there worked better. I also miss seeing all my notifications upfront like on my Galaxy. iOS hides too much, and it still confuses me.
The changes will roll out with iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, codenamed “Luck,” along with macOS 16, known as “Cheer,” says Gurman. With these updates, Apple is aiming for something bigger. Let’s see if it lives up to the hype. Hopefully, the company won’t repeat last year’s misstep with promised features like new Siri tech that never arrived.
3. Smarter features with Apple Intelligence
Apple’s bringing a wave of new features to iOS 26, and they’re not just cosmetic. One of the most interesting ones is live conversation translation using AirPods. Let’s say you’re speaking English and someone’s replying in French—your iPhone steps in, translates on the fly, and sends the English version straight to your ears. The same goes for the other person, hearing your side in French through your iPhone. It’s a seamless back-and-forth that could make real-world conversations way less awkward.
Another addition is a smarter Health app. It’s getting a total redesign as part of something Apple calls Project Mulberry. Along with the new layout, you’ll get a built-in health coach that acts a lot like a real doctor. It learns from your daily habits and gives tips to keep you on track.
Battery management’s also getting a boost. Apple’s working on a smarter power mode that responds to your charging habits and app usage. I’ve been using an iPhone 15 Pro, and while the battery held up great at first, it’s been dying earlier in the day lately. So a feature that cuts power drain hits home.
There’ll also be a lock-screen display that shows how much time you need to get a full charge. Quite handy when you’re trying to squeeze in a quick top-up before heading out.
4. Biggest AI news from WWDC
The biggest AI news from WWDC? Apple’s finally letting outside developers tap into its Foundation Models. That’s a big move. Apple wants to spark more app development on its devices—and attract more users in the process. Honestly, it makes sense. Compared to competitors, Apple hasn’t invested as heavily in AI talent.
For now, they’re starting small. Instead of launching cloud-powered models, Apple will first share the lighter ones that run directly on devices. These models don’t rely on servers, so they’re easier to build with.
Apple kicked off its Apple Intelligence last year. But most features didn’t gain much attention, and other AI platforms still feel stronger.
That said, a few tools stand out already. The image cleanup feature works well. Notification summaries read like they came from a human. But the bigger updates are still on the way.
Siri will gain new abilities. It will track emails, messages, photos, and files across the device. That means you’ll be able to get what you need without digging. Also, we’re still waiting for Swift Assist, which was introduced last year. It’s meant to write and complete code using AI. Still no launch. Still no word.
With developers getting access to Apple’s models, the pace might pick up. Let’s hope the upgrades land soon.
5. iPad gets a Mac-like boost
Alongside the usual AI talk and Apple’s push to unify the look and feel of its platforms, the WWDC25 seems like it’ll shine a spotlight on iPad software. Apple’s working on a major iPadOS 26 update that brings it closer to a Mac-like experience.
The overhaul follows last year’s release of the M4 chip in the iPad Pro. From what I’ve seen, that chip gave the tablet a serious performance boost. So, what’s coming next?
“I’m told that this year’s upgrade will focus on productivity, multitasking and app window management — with an eye on the device operating more like a Mac,” says Gurman.
A lot of iPad users have been hoping Apple would just throw macOS on the iPad. That’s not happening, according to WWDC25 rumors. Still, the update might get close enough to scratch that itch for many folks. I don’t think the iPad Pro needs to fully replace your laptop, but when you’re paying that kind of money, Apple should at least let you run macOS if you want. Maybe a dual-boot option could work. Or some kind of virtualisation setup that feels smoother.
WWDC25 rumors: Outlook
Apple usually shows off major hardware at its developer events, but that doesn’t seem to be happening this time. There aren’t any new devices ready to hit shelves. The next round—including iPhones and Apple Watches—will land in the fall. So, WWDC25 is shaping up to be all about software.
With the one-year anniversary of Apple Intelligence approaching, the pressure is on. Apple wants to stir up some excitement at the June 9 event, but there’s not much to add on the AI side. Will operating system updates be enough to turn heads?
Honestly, iOS has gotten kind of stale for me, too. But I’m still curious about what Apple’s got planned with the new design. A fresh look can change everything. It reminds me of switching from Windows XP to Vista—say what you want about it, but the visuals hit different.