Major Design Overhaul: Introducing Liquid Glass
Apple unveiled its most extensive visual redesign to date across all major operating systems at its annual developer conference. The new design language, called "Liquid Glass," introduces a more dynamic and semi-transparent aesthetic that brings enhanced consistency to iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. Users can expect redesigned widgets, notifications, and refreshed interfaces offering a modernized visual experience this fall.[5]
Apple Intelligence Expands to All Apps
In a significant move for AI on Apple devices, Apple’s
Apple Intelligence system is now accessible to all apps, not just Apple’s native software. This expanded integration allows third-party developers to leverage Apple Intelligence’s AI features within their own apps, opening up new possibilities for productivity, personalization, and smart automation directly within users' favorite third-party tools.[2][5]
Renamed Operating Systems: Year Identifiers Debut
Apple is departing from its traditional operating system naming convention. Instead of sequential numbers, this year’s releases will bear the year as an identifier. For example:
- iOS 26 replacing iOS 19
- iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, and macOS 26 Tahoe adopting the new format
This marks the first time Apple is unifying its software naming schemes with year-based identifiers, simplifying version recognition for users across all platforms.[5]
Updates Across Every Major Platform
The WWDC keynote signaled that Apple plans to roll out more than just visual changes. Owners of iPhones, iPads, Macs, and other Apple devices can look forward to:
- Multiple design and productivity upgrades across operating systems
- Updated widgets with enhanced interactivity and glanceable information
- Overhauled core apps for improved functionality and consistency
These updates aim to modernize user experiences and streamline daily workflows for millions of Apple users.[5]
Looking Ahead
All the highlighted operating system and AI-led features will arrive with Apple’s software updates this fall. With a focus on design evolution, expanded AI capabilities through
Apple Intelligence, and a shift to year-identified OS versions, Apple is setting the stage for a new era across its entire product lineup.[2][5]
