What to Expect from Apple's WWDC25 on June 9

Apple is gearing up for a significant overhaul of its software across all major products, including the iPhone, Mac, and Vision Pro. According to Bloomberg, every operating system will leap to version "26," marking the first major update in years. This transformation will be unveiled at WWDC25 on June 9 at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET.

Glassy and Translucent “Solarium” Visual Redesign

The upcoming iOS 26, macOS 26 (codenamed “Tahoe”), iPadOS 26, and others will feature a new visual design. Inspired by the glassy, transparent windows of Vision Pro’s visionOS, this design, dubbed “Solarium,” will unify Apple’s ecosystem. Expect app icons with transparent, glass-like textures, reminiscent of a sunroom that lets light pass through at various angles.

Despite the buzz, the changes might not be as radical as those seen in Android 16’s Material 3 Expressive redesign. Customizable app icons and widgets from iOS 18 are likely to remain.

Small Updates to Apple Apps

Apple’s smaller products, like CarPlay and tvOS, may adopt these design elements. The Apple Watch interface might also see changes, with potential new health and fitness features. However, the rumored “AI Doctor” feature may not be ready for WWDC25. iPadOS could gain more Mac features to enhance multitasking.

Reports suggest the Messages app might soon offer automated text translation, similar to Samsung Galaxy phones. The Apple Music app could display album art on the lock screen while playing music.

Mac is Back With a Whole New Menu Bar

MacOS 26, or “Tahoe,” will introduce a redesigned menu bar and window buttons, featuring see-through elements. Pop-out menus will be a consistent design across Apple’s ecosystem. Customizable views for weather, stock, and appointment widgets will be available, and the Preview app will extend to iPads and iPhones.

AI In More Places and Maybe With Help from Anthropic and Google

Apple’s AI overhaul, including Apple Intelligence, was expected to transform Siri into a sophisticated chatbot. However, reports indicate a step back from these ambitions. Apple may collaborate with AI companies like Anthropic and Google to integrate their models into Apple’s software. The big AI upgrade for iOS 26 is expected to be live translation for calls and texts. Additionally, Genmoji will allow users to combine two emojis into one.

Bigger Gaming Push?

Apple might make a significant gaming push with a dedicated video game app, incorporating Apple Arcade and select games. This app could feature achievement emblems and leaderboards. VisionOS 26 may enhance gaming capabilities with third-party controller support, potentially including PlayStation VR2 controllers.

Don’t Expect the iPhone 17

While iPhones will receive many new features, including a simplified Camera app interface and a new view for the Phone app, no new hardware announcements are expected at WWDC25. The rumored iPhone 17 family and other new devices will likely be revealed in September.