Apple WWDC 2025: iOS 26, New AI Tools, and a Fresh Software Era Begin Today

Apple is set to take center stage today with its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025, where it will outline the future of its software platforms. The keynote started, live from Cupertino, California. Viewers around the world can tune in via Apple’s website, the Apple TV app, or its official YouTube channel. A recorded version will be made available shortly after.

This year’s WWDC focuses entirely on software, and one of the biggest talking points is the company’s decision to revamp its OS naming convention. Starting this year, Apple will align its operating system names with the calendar year — hence the unveiling of iOS 26, moving away from the previous sequential numbering format. This change extends to iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS as well.

Alongside this, Apple is reportedly rolling out a major visual overhaul inspired by visionOS, the interface from its Vision Pro headset. Expect a sleeker UI with digital glass-like aesthetics, improved transparency effects, updated icons, and smoother, more intuitive interactions. These updates aim to deliver a unified and modern experience across all Apple devices.

Core apps like Phone, Safari, and Camera are expected to receive meaningful feature updates, enhancing their day-to-day utility. On the AI front, Apple is shifting focus toward real-world functionality. A standout feature is a smart battery management system that uses AI to learn user habits and extend battery performance.

However, one high-profile absence may disappoint some fans: the next-gen Siri overhaul, rumored to be powered by ChatGPT-like technology, has reportedly been postponed due to ongoing development challenges. Instead, Apple will spotlight developer-focused AI tools designed to integrate machine learning more seamlessly into apps and workflows.

As expected, no new hardware is anticipated during the event. The next-generation iPhones and MacBooks are still months away and will likely debut in the fall.

WWDC 2025 serves as a critical moment for Apple to reaffirm its software innovation amid intensifying AI competition. With a fresh design philosophy and smarter features, iOS 26 and its ecosystem updates signal the beginning of a more intelligent and visually immersive Apple experience.