Apple’s WWDC 2025 event introduced big updates across its entire ecosystem. The focus was clear: better design, more AI features, and stronger connections between devices. Here’s a quick and clear look at the biggest announcements.
New Version Names for Operating Systems
Apple is changing how it names its operating systems. From now on, each system will use the release year as the version number. This year’s versions are:
iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26 (Tahoe), watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26
- Developer betas are available now.
- Public betas will launch in July.
- Final releases are expected this fall.
Liquid Glass Design
Apple introduced a brand-new design called Liquid Glass. This new look brings:
- Transparent menus
- Dynamic widgets
- Smooth animations across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Vision Pro
The iOS 26 lock screen now lets wallpapers shine through, making the system feel more modern.
Apple Intelligence: Better AI for Everyone
Apple’s AI system, called Apple Intelligence, is getting smarter with:
- Live Translation for real-time conversations
- Visual intelligence to recognize objects on screen
- Genmoji and Image Playground for creative fun
- Direct Shortcuts for AI-powered automation
Developers can use Apple’s AI in their apps, keeping everything private and on-device. The most advanced features work on iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 Pro.
Vision Pro and visionOS 26 Updates
Apple’s Vision Pro headset also got major updates:
- Spatial widgets that stay in place in your real-world view
- Look to Scroll lets you scroll using just your eyes
- Support for PlayStation VR2 Sense controllers for better gaming
- New partnerships with Canon, GoPro, and Insta360 for immersive video
- 3D objects in websites for interactive AR experiences
macOS 26 “Tahoe”
Macs will now use the Liquid Glass design. Key updates include:
- Transparent menu bar
- Customizable folder colors
- Emoji annotations
- Spotlight and Shortcuts integration for faster access to apps and AI features
AirPods: Smarter Controls
AirPods are also getting smarter with features like:
- Tap to take photos on your iPhone or iPad
- Sleep detection to pause playback when you fall asleep
- Volume control with head movements
- Studio-quality microphones for better voice recordings
These features will work with AirPods 4, AirPods 4 with ANC, and AirPods Pro 2.
Gaming and Entertainment
- The new Games app helps you track all your games, challenges, and friends’ activity.
- Apple Music adds AI-powered AutoMix playlists and lyrics translation.
- Apple TV now offers vocal reduction for karaoke and lets you overlay your voice using your iPhone as a microphone.
Device Compatibility
- iOS 26 will work with iPhone 11 and newer.
- The best AI features require iPhone 16 or iPhone 15 Pro.
- Public beta comes in July 2025.
- Final release arrives this fall with new Apple hardware.
Conclusion
Apple’s WWDC 2025 was all about smarter AI, bold new designs, and stronger device integration. By the end of this year, Apple users will experience a fresh, unified system across all their devices.
