WWDC 2025: iOS 26 “Liquid Glass” Redesign, Apple Intelligence Upgrades, and More

At its annual developer conference worldwide (WWDC 2025) on June 9, Apple introduced the biggest changes in the years on its software platforms. The event presented iOS 26, a new liquid glass design language, Smarter AirPods, and the next Apple Intelligence Evolution-The Ai tool suite from Apple.

For the first time, Apple is moving away from version numbers such as iOS 19 and changing a year based naming, aligning updates with the calendar year.

Let’s break down the most important updates.

iOS 26 Introduces “Liquid Glass” UI

Apple reimagined the user’s interface on all its platforms with what it calls liquid glass. This new design offers a cleaner and more translucent look with smooth animations and floating panels.

Appears in iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26 (“Tahoe”), watchOS 26, and visionOS
Inspired by the design language of Apple Vision Pro
Enhances depth, layering, and gesture fluidity

This redesign is the most dramatic change of the Apple after iOS 7, and it sets the tone for the next 20th anniversary iPhone in 2027.

Goodbye iOS 19, Hello Year Based Naming

In a stunning step, Apple dropped the traditional version system (iOS 19, 20, etc.) and is now naming the software update according to the year. Hence the release of 2025 is called iOS 26, macOS 26, and so on.

Why the change?

Apple says it wants to make it easier for users to know which version they are and align their release strategy most clearly between platforms.

Apple Intelligence Gets a Boost

Apple is expanding its Apple intelligence initiative. Developers will now have more access to AI models on Apple’s device and cloud, allowing them to build smarter apps.

Key features:

Improved battery optimization using AI prediction
Smarter Siri with better context understanding
Enhanced Safari, Notes, and Shortcuts apps
On-device privacy-first AI processing

Apple kept its AI push subtle but significant, focusing on the user’s control and stability about flashy features.

See Also –

Apple to Unveil iOS 26 at WWDC 2025, Skipping iOS 19 in Major Naming Overhaul

Apple Shortcuts Gets Smarter with AI in 2025

AirPods Get Real-Time Translation and Gestures

One of the most impressive features of WWDC 2025 came from the AirPods lineup:

Live language translation in real time
Head gestures to answer/reject calls (nod/shake)
Auto-pause if user falls asleep
Remote camera trigger for iPhone

These features enhance daily usability and accessibility, pushing AirPods closer to becoming a smart assistant.

Game Hub App Revamps Apple Arcade

Apple is replacing the old game center with a new game hub app, which is designed to focus everything related to gaming on iOS and macOS.

Features:

Integration with Apple Arcade
Universal leaderboards and achievements
Personalized game recommendations
Connects to third-party titles as well

This is part of Apple’s plan to strengthen its role in mobile and casual gaming.

No Hardware Announcements This Year

Unlike previous years, the WWDC 2025 was only software. There were no updates on hardware such as new iPads, Macs or Vision Pro. However, Apple implied that the new hardware could be announced in September, along with the public launch of iOS 26.

When Will iOS 26 Be Available?

Developer Beta: Available now
Public Beta: Expected in July 2025
Official Release: September 2025 (with new iPhones)
Supported Devices: iPhone 15 and newer

❓ FAQs

Q: What is Liquid Glass UI?

A: It’s Apple’s new design system featuring translucent layers, smooth gestures, and depth enhancing visuals across devices.

Q: Is iOS 19 being skipped?

A: Yes. Apple has shifted to year-based naming iOS 26 represents the 2025 release.

Q: Will my iPhone get iOS 26?

A: If you have an iPhone 15 or newer, you’re eligible.