Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference 2025 delivered significant announcements across all major platforms, headlined by the first major iOS redesign since 2013. The company introduced what it calls "Liquid Glass" design language, unified version numbering across all operating systems, and substantial improvements to Apple Intelligence capabilities.
Unified Version Numbering: The "26" Standard
In a significant organisational change, Apple unified the version numbering across all operating systems. Every platform now carries the "26" designation:
iOS 26
iPadOS 26
macOS 26 Tahoe
watchOS 26
tvOS 26
visionOS 26
This numbering reflects the year when the software will be available to customers throughout 2026, creating consistency across Apple's ecosystem (finally!).
iOS 26: The Liquid Glass Revolution
The headline announcement of WWDC 2025 was iOS 26, featuring Apple's most significant visual overhaul since iOS 7 in 2013. Alan Dye, Apple's Vice President of Human Interface, unveiled the new "Liquid Glass" design language inspired by the Apple Vision Pro's interface aesthetic.
Key iOS 26 Features
Liquid Glass Interface: Translucent, glass-like visual elements that create depth and sophistication across the entire system
Simplified Camera App: Dramatically streamlined interface for easier photo and video capture
Enhanced Lock Screen: New 3D image effects and animated album artwork displays
Games App: New dedicated gaming application with social features, friend challenges, and leaderboards
Enhanced Messages: Typing indicators for group chats, shared backgrounds, polls feature, and improved unknown sender controls
Apple Intelligence Improvements
Apple Intelligence received significant updates with new language support, more powerful models, and broader integration across the ecosystem. Key enhancements include:
Visual Intelligence: Enhanced camera-based AI that can identify objects and events, with ChatGPT integration for screen queries
Image Playground: OpenAI-enhanced image generation with contact poster customization and developer API access
Third-party Integration: All apps can now access Apple Intelligence capabilities
macOS 26 Tahoe: Desktop Gets the Glass Treatment
Apple's desktop operating system receives the Tahoe moniker, continuing the California location naming convention. macOS 26 Tahoe incorporates the Liquid Glass design language across the desktop experience.
Major macOS 26 Features
Liquid Glass Design: Transparent menu bars and glass-like interface elements throughout the system
Enhanced Continuity: Dedicated Phone app bringing iPhone calling features directly to Mac
Improved Spotlight: AI-powered search that can find features within apps and assign quick keyboard shortcuts
Gaming App: New dedicated gaming application with friend connectivity and enhanced developer tools
Customization Options: Custom folder colors and emoji integration throughout the system
iPadOS 26: A step in the right Direction to Becoming a True Laptop Replacement
Craig Federighi called this "the biggest iPadOS release ever," and the updates justify that statement. Apple has finally addressed long-standing criticisms about the iPad's potential as a serious computing device.
Revolutionary iPadOS 26 Features
Advanced Windowing System: Robust window controls allowing resizing, manoeuvring, and flexible placement with full-screen and floating window options
Improved File Management: Enhanced Files app addressing the poor file management that previously held back professional use
Professional Audio/Video Tools: Enhanced Logic and Final Cut Pro with new workflow options and optimized AirPods recording capabilities
watchOS 26: Enhanced Health and Connectivity
The Apple Watch receives significant updates focused on health tracking, productivity, and Apple Intelligence integration.
Key watchOS 26 Updates
Workout Buddy: AI-powered fitness coach providing personalized advice and motivational support with generative voice from real trainers
Notes App: Finally bringing the long-requested Notes synchronization and creation capabilities to the wrist
Enhanced Gestures: New motion tracking features and gesture controls
visionOS 26: Spatial Computing Evolution
The Apple Vision Pro receives substantial updates that enhance its viability as both a gaming and productivity platform.
Major visionOS 26 Enhancements
Controller Support: Integration with Sony PlayStation VR2 controllers and Logitech Muse, significantly improving gaming capabilities
Spatial Widgets: Revolutionary 3D widgets like clocks and photo albums that persist in your virtual space
Improved Personas: Much more realistic facial expressions and hair rendering for virtual meetings
Enhanced Video Support: Partnerships with Canon, GoPro, and Insta360 for native 180°, 360°, and immersive video playback
Enterprise Features: For Your Eyes Only mode for document privacy and multi-user support for shared devices
Cross-Platform Features and Services
CarPlay Ultra
Apple CarPlay evolves beyond single-screen integration to control entire vehicle dashboards, including speedometers and tachometers on select 2025 model vehicles.
Apple Music Enhancements
Lyrics Translation: Real-time translation helping users sing along regardless of language barriers
Automix Feature: AI-powered DJ functionality that intelligently mixes tracks based on user preferences
Karaoke Mode: Machine learning-powered vocal removal with iPhone microphone support and on-screen lyrics
Apple TV+ and Entertainment
Apple announced new seasons of popular shows including Foundation, Slow Horses, Loot, The Morning Show, and Platonic, alongside new movies featuring major Hollywood talent.
Availability and Developer Access
Apple confirmed that developer betas for all operating systems are available immediately, with public betas coming soon. The full releases are expected to coincide with new hardware launches in fall 2025.
WWDC 2025 represents Apple's most comprehensive software update in years, addressing long-standing user requests while pushing the boundaries of what's possible across their ecosystem. The Liquid Glass design language creates visual cohesion between platforms, while substantial functional improvements - particularly to iPadOS - demonstrate Apple's commitment to making each device category more capable and professional.