The 2025 Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) is just around the corner, with less than a week remaining until the highly anticipated keynote event. This week, we are sharing a series of rumor recaps for those eager to get a sneak peek at some of the exciting features expected in Apple's upcoming software updates, particularly iOS 26. This new operating system has been a hot topic, and rumors suggest that it will receive a significant design overhaul. Below, we’ve highlighted everything we know so far about iOS 26.
In a surprising move, Apple will not be releasing iOS 19 or iOS 20. Instead, the tech giant has decided to skip to iOS 26, which will be launched alongside iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26. The number '26' signifies the release season from September 2025 to September 2026. This new numbering system aims to simplify tracking and understanding Apple's software updates, as all updates will now share the same year identifier.
The upcoming iOS 26 is expected to feature a major design revamp, incorporating visual elements from the visionOS operating system. Internally referred to as "Solarium," this design project hints at a fresh, translucent, glass-inspired aesthetic. Just like visionOS, which utilizes a translucent interface, iOS 26 is predicted to allow users to see their surroundings while interacting with app menus and windows. This means that the iPhone interface could adopt a similar translucent approach, letting content shine through.
Additionally, we might see floating on-screen windows and menus inspired by visionOS, featuring rounded pop-up navigation and pill-shaped navigation bars that hover above the content. The overall look of iOS 26 is anticipated to be glossy and glass-like, creating a visually appealing interface. The WWDC 2025 teaser images showcase a frosted glass rainbow, hinting at this new design direction.
Beyond aesthetics, iOS 26 is set to simplify navigation throughout the operating system. Apple is making adjustments to menus, buttons, and navigation elements to ensure a more intuitive user experience. These design and interface enhancements will also extend to other operating systems like macOS, iPadOS, tvOS, and watchOS, promoting design consistency across Apple's ecosystem.
Several innovative features powered by Apple Intelligence are expected to debut in iOS 26. One of the most noteworthy is an AI-driven battery management system that learns user habits to optimize battery life. This feature will be particularly beneficial for devices like the iPhone 17 Air, which is anticipated to have a smaller battery capacity.
The Shortcuts app will receive an update that integrates Apple Intelligence, enabling users to create actions using natural language. Furthermore, Apple is reportedly close to a deal with Google to incorporate Google Gemini into the iPhone as an alternative to ChatGPT, allowing for enhanced AI-powered responses through Siri.
Numerous existing Apple apps will also see new features in iOS 26. The Messages app will introduce automatic translations and support for polls, while the Music app will feature full-screen animated art on the Lock Screen. Other enhancements include Markdown support in Notes and an updated user interface for CarPlay.
In terms of health, a new Health app is in the works, potentially offering AI-driven health coaching features and personalized recommendations. While it may not be ready for the initial release of iOS 26, it's generating excitement among users.
Accessibility features in iOS 26 will include customizable music haptics, an Accessibility Reader for easier text reading, and enhanced support for large text and sound recognition in CarPlay. These updates aim to make the iOS experience more inclusive for all users.
While iOS 26 will not support the iPhone XR, iPhone XS, or iPhone XS Max, it will be compatible with all other iPhones that currently run iOS 18, including the latest models like the iPhone 16 series and the iPhone 15 series. However, advanced features may be limited to newer devices equipped with faster processors.
Don’t miss the Apple WWDC 2025 keynote, which kicks off on Monday, June 9 at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time. Apple will live stream the event on its website, YouTube, and the TV app. For those unable to watch live, MacRumors will provide live coverage and updates, ensuring you stay informed about all the exciting announcements.
For more detailed information on all the rumored features of iOS 26 and what to expect from WWDC 2025, check out our comprehensive iOS 26 roundup.
