Apple is poised to implement a significant overhaul of its operating systems this year, marking a transformative shift beyond just visual and usability enhancements. The upcoming major versions of iOS and iPadOS, which are set to be unveiled at the much-anticipated WWDC 2025 in a few weeks, were expected to follow the traditional numbering system—iOS 19 and macOS 15, for instance. However, according to sources from Bloomberg, this long-standing convention may soon change.
The latest reports suggest that Apple may adopt a year-based versioning system for its operating systems. This means we could see the introduction of iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26. If this change occurs, it would align the version numbers with the year of release, streamlining the identification of each major OS update. Apple typically launches the first public versions of these operating systems in the fall, so the iterations arriving this September or October could bear the designation of 2026.
We will have confirmation of this potential shift during the keynote address at Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference on June 9. This event is expected to showcase a major user interface overhaul across all platforms, aiming to provide a more cohesive experience across the diverse range of Apple devices.
The decision to unify the branding of all Apple operating systems appears to be a strategic move. Currently, the software powering Apple Watch devices is at watchOS 11, while the Apple Vision Pro operates on visionOS 2. This fragmented numbering system can be confusing for users. By applying the same year-based numbering system across all operating systems, Apple can simplify the process for users to stay informed about updates and new features.
This potential change not only reflects Apple's commitment to enhancing user experience but also emphasizes its goal of creating a more intuitive ecosystem. As we approach the WWDC 2025, the anticipation builds around how these changes might reshape the landscape of Apple's software offerings. Keep an eye out for the latest updates as we move closer to the keynote announcement!
