Apple’s WWDC 2025: What Game-Changing Features Are Expected?

WWDC 2025, Apple’s developer conference, kicks off Monday, June 9, and there’s pressure on the company to match, if not top, what it’s done in the past. The Vision Pro in 2023. Apple Intelligence in 2024. What big announcement is coming in 2025?

At its last two WWDC events, Apple launched itself into new territories, jumping into both AR/VR and generative AI. But with both the Vision Pro and Apple Intelligence having faced slow and heavily criticized starts, the big message at this year’s WWDC doesn’t seem clear at all. Apple might focus on operating system redesigns and gradual improvements across the board.

WWDC is usually a showcase for Apple’s future-forward ideas. It’s also where the company discusses its developer tools, as you’d expect. And it’s where previews of all the new iOS versions are revealed, giving an early look at what’s coming to the iPhone, iPad, Mac and other Apple devices.

It’s possible Apple will reveal a new home device — a display-enabled HomePod — or even a new Apple Pencil with a calligraphy mode. But the biggest rumors so far suggest a new cross-OS redesign and renaming that could be Apple’s way of deflecting some attention away from not having big new AI features to show off.

OS by Year: Will it be iOS 26?

Recent reports from Bloomberg’s often-correct Mark Gurman say Apple is going to ditch the existing numbered OS convention it’s used for years and instead go with another approach to naming: labeling all annual OSes by year number. Instead of iOS 19, we’ll have iOS 26. This new convention is aligned with current industry trends, making it easier for users to identify if they’re on the latest version.

Glass as the New Look

The WWDC invites featuring a hazy transparent ring hint at a reported redesign of all the company’s software to a new “glass” look. Gurman reported on a large incoming cross-OS design shift, calling it a dramatic redesign and one of the biggest Apple’s done in years. This design may mirror the Vision Pro’s VisionOS feel, enhancing user experience across devices.

Beyond a fresh coat of paint, we might see iPadOS and MacOS becoming more similar in function. With features like Stage Manager for multitasking on the iPad, the line between tablet and laptop continues to blur.

WatchOS Should Get Apple Intelligence and Health App Upgrades

One of the devices set to benefit from Apple Intelligence soon is the Apple Watch. This update is expected to enhance existing features like message summaries and translation. Additionally, there are indications that generative AI insights could integrate into the Health app, potentially offering a subscription service for advanced health tracking.

Your Apple Watch could finally catch up with other devices in terms of AI advancements, providing personalized coaching and insights that many users are eager for.

Battery Life Boosts

Another recent report suggests AI will play a key role in improving battery life across devices, including the iPhone and Apple Watch. While gradual boosts have been seen over time, this could mark a significant leap in powering your devices more efficiently—an upgrade that many users will welcome.

Game News?

Apple could be placing a renewed emphasis on gaming. Reports indicate that the company may introduce a new app to serve as a hub for games and services—including Apple Arcade—offering a more unified gaming experience. This app could enhance compatibility with accessories, giving a much-needed structuring to gaming on Apple devices.

Moreover, there are hints of VR gaming advancements as Apple may look to allow PlayStation VR 2 controllers to work with the Vision Pro, expanding gaming opportunities on their VR/AR headset lineup.

AI: Live Translation and Vision Camera Advancements

Camera access was opened to enterprise developers last year, and now AI tools for all users are on the horizon. With live translation set to come to certain AirPods models, Apple is leveling up its feature offerings to better compete in the AI arena, especially against strong players like Google.

The introduction of camera-aware AI tools may also be on the table, enhancing interaction with the Visual world for users across devices.

Apple Pencil Enhancements

Expect either a brand-new Apple Pencil or an update to existing features, possibly featuring a digital reed calligraphy pen mode. This could make the experience of using the stylus feel fresh and innovative, appealing to artists and creators alike.

A New HomePod-Slash-iPad?

Hopes are high for a new product: a screen-enabled HomePod that aligns with Apple’s focus on smart home technology. Featuring a touchscreen, this device could serve various roles—from a control panel to a sophisticated smart display.

Curiosity surrounds its form factor and potential functionalities, as users may explore new ways to interact with Apple’s ecosystem.

WWDC/Gurman Potpourri

Additional rumors from Gurman include several likely updates:

• Background options for chats in the Messages app.
• An iPadOS version of the Preview app.
• MacOS-like multitasking features coming to iPadOS.
• Camera app interface overhaul aimed at simplification.

We’ll Know More Soon

WWDC is happening June 9, with the keynote video presentation streaming at 10 a.m. Pacific. This is an exciting moment for Apple enthusiasts, as we await more insights into future software and product innovations from the company.