Apple’s WWDC 2025: macOS Tahoe, iOS 26, and a Deeper Dive Into Apple Intelligence

As Apple sets its annual Worldwide Developers Conference on June 9, WWDC 2025 announcements are finally available. During the event, the company is expected to announce several major software updates, including macOS “Tahoe,” iOS 26, and a suite of AI features under the Apple Intelligence umbrella.

According to Bloomberg, the event may not feature headline-grabbing hardware but will focus on streamlining the user experience, deepening AI integration, and reinforcing Apple’s privacy-first approach across its platforms.

WWDC 2025 Announcements: Apple Preps Major Software Upgrades with a Visual Twist

iOS 26: Version Number Aligned With the Calendar

Apple is changing its software names to correspond with the year of release and abandoning its previous version numbering system. This indicates that iOS 26 is now the official version of what would have been iOS 19.

The name isn’t the only change; iOS 26 is anticipated to bring a significant visual makeover, incorporating visionOS-inspired floating navigation bar, smoother animations, and translucent elements. The goal is to update and modernize the iPhone without overwhelming users.

macOS “Tahoe”: A Scenic Refresh

Apple’s next desktop operating system will be named macOS Tahoe, continuing its tradition of naming macOS versions after iconic Californian landmarks. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the new version is expected to introduce a cleaner and more cohesive design, echoing visual themes from visionOS, Apple’s operating system for Vision Pro.

While Apple hasn’t revealed specific features yet, the name and focus suggest a UI refresh and tighter cross-platform integration for Mac users.

Updates for iPadOS 26, watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS

iPadOS 26 is anticipated to adopt the same streamlined design strategy as iOS 26, bringing the iPad closer to a real laptop experience. Apple wants the iPad to function more like a productivity tool than a bulky phone.

However, silent updates with improved performance and cleaner interfaces are being made to watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS to ensure that the entire Apple ecosystem functions more seamlessly.

New Gaming App and Strategic Studio Acquisition

Gaming is also set to get an upgrade. Since, Apple is developing a new standalone gaming app to replace the outdated Game Center. The app would serve as a central hub for achievements, multiplayer tracking, and game discovery across Apple devices.

Additionally, Apple recently acquired RAC7, the indie studio behind Sneaky Sasquatch. This acquisition signals Apple’s growing interest in building a more engaging and curated gaming experience on iOS and macOS.

Is AI at WWDC 2025 More Hype Than Real?

At least not this time, don’t expect Apple to compete directly with Google or Samsung in the AI race. According to Bloomberg’s report, the presentation will include “Apple Intelligence,” but some may find the scope of the AI updates to be unimpressive.

The company appears to be adopting a more measured, slower strategy, emphasizing small, steady advancements over major shocks.

A strong round of updates centered on improved everyday use, smarter systems, and smoother design is promised by the WWDC 2025 announcements. The new design of iOS 26 and enhanced functionality in macOS 26 demonstrate that Apple is still developing, albeit at its own pace, even though AI may take a backseat this year.