WWDC 2025: What to Expect from This Year’s Conference

WWDC 2025, Apple’s annual developers conference, is set to kick off at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET on Monday. Last year’s event was notable for its focus on AI, and this year, Apple is under pressure to build on its promises and change the narrative after months of negative headlines.

As in previous years, the company will focus on software updates and new technologies, including the next version of iOS, rumored to have the most significant design changes since iOS 7. But iOS 19, or possibly iOS 26 if rumors about a new naming system are true, isn’t the only thing Apple will announce at WWDC 2025.

Here’s how you can watch the keynote livestream.

iOS is Getting the Most Dramatic Design Change in Over a Decade

When Apple introduced a major overhaul to iOS in 2013 with iOS 7, it was a jarring shift for many users. Now, new reports suggest an upcoming redesign could provoke a similar reaction. The new design may include elements referencing visionOS, the software powering Apple’s spatial computing headset, the Apple Vision Pro. This could mean a transparent interface and more circular app icons, breaking away from the traditional square format.

This visual redesign could be implemented across all of Apple’s ecosystem, including CarPlay, providing a more seamless experience for consumers moving between their devices.

iOS Will Change Its Naming System

According to Bloomberg, Apple will announce a change in the naming system for iOS at this year’s WWDC. Instead of iOS 19, Apple’s operating systems will be named by year, potentially launching iOS 26 alongside adOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26.

Apple May Keep the AI News Light This Year

While it might be challenging to top last year’s AI news, Apple is expected to share a few updates on the AI front. The company has been criticized for announcing AI capabilities that have yet to ship, leading to accusations of touting vaporware. While Apple has launched several AI tools, its promise of an improved Siri has been delayed.

Apple has turned to outside companies like OpenAI to boost its iPhone’s AI capabilities. At WWDC, it may announce support for other AI chatbots. Reports suggest Apple’s Health app could soon incorporate AI technology, including a health chatbot and generative AI insights.

iPhone Users May Get a Dedicated Gaming App

Bloomberg confirmed that Apple is developing a dedicated gaming app to replace the aging Game Center app. The app could include access to Apple Arcade’s subscription-based game store, plus other gaming features like leaderboards and recommendations.

Updates to Mac, Watch, TV, and More

Along with the new design, Apple’s other operating systems will get some polish. macOS may see the new gaming app and benefit from new AirPods features. Apple TV may get a visual overhaul and changes to its user interface.

AirPods to Get New Features

Bloomberg reported that Apple could bring a live-translate language feature to its AirPods, allowing real-time translation during conversations. AirPods may also get new head gestures and features to auto-pause music after you fall asleep.

Apple Pencil Upgrade

The Apple Pencil is also receiving an update, including a new virtual calligraphy feature in iPadOS 19 to cater to customers in UAE, Saudi Arabia, and India.

No Hardware Announcements?

There haven’t been any rumors regarding new devices, as no hardware is ready for release yet. However, Apple may announce support for a new input device for its Vision Pro: spatial controllers.