Apple’s Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) 2025 unveiled significant updates to its operating systems, embracing a unified year-based naming system. Instead of sequential version numbers, platforms will now be named after the release year—iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, watchOS 26, and visionOS 26.
The event highlighted a major design overhaul called “Liquid Glass,” featured across all platforms. This aesthetic introduces translucent interfaces with dynamic movement, rounded corners, and a refined, glass-like appearance, marking Apple’s biggest redesign since iOS 7.
iOS 26 received a comprehensive refresh, improving usability and streamlining the interface while integrating deeper Apple Intelligence features. Developer betas are available immediately, with public testing starting in July.
iPadOS 26 focuses on productivity enhancements, narrowing the gap between iPads and Macs. New multitasking capabilities include resizable windows, a Mac-like menu bar, and an Exposé view for managing open apps. The Files app has been redesigned for better organization and user control, including the ability to add folders to the dock. A full-featured Preview app for PDFs, enhanced audio and video capture tools, and background task support improve the experience for content creators.
macOS Tahoe 26 adopts the Liquid Glass design with transparent elements and refined light/dark modes. The update introduces a new standalone Phone app that uses iPhone’s cellular connection to place calls. This hints at a future where Macs could gain cellular connectivity, aligning more closely with iPhones and iPads.
watchOS 26 mirrors the new naming convention and design style, adopting Liquid Glass visuals with translucent backgrounds and menus tailored to the rounded display of the Apple Watch. The update focuses on improving notifications and the overall user interface.
visionOS 26 enhances Apple’s Vision Pro headset with eye-scrolling controls and support for PlayStation VR2 Sense controllers, expanding its gaming capabilities. The unified Liquid Glass design continues to provide a rich and interactive user experience.
Apple detailed improvements across all device categories emphasizing better integration, accessibility, and performance. Developer sessions began shortly after the keynote to provide in-depth looks at the new features, aiming to empower both users and app creators.