Apple WWDC 2025: What to expect from the next big iOS update for iPhones

Apple iPhone

As WWDC 2025 approaches, Apple’s iOS update looks to be more than just a routine refresh. If the rumours are true, iOS 19 will arrive with a new name, a fresh design, and a host of features that stretch from gaming to health — all pointing to one of the most ambitious updates in years.

iOS 19 or iOS 26?

A new name is in the works if rumours are to be believed. Apple is reportedly shifting to a model-year naming scheme, similar to cars — meaning iOS 19 will debut as iOS 26, alongside iPadOS 26, macOS 26, and the rest.

All-new design

But the bigger story is the design. Sources say this will be the most radical overhaul since iOS 7, with an interface inspired by Vision Pro’s visionOS. Think “Liquid Glass”: more translucency, new circular icons, and a unified look across platforms, including CarPlay.

Apps to get new look and feel

Several apps are expected to get notable changes. The Phone app may introduce a unified scrollable view for favorites, recents, and voicemail. Safari is tipped to adopt a transparent address bar, and the Camera app could see a cleaner layout. Apple may also port the Preview app from macOS to iPhone and iPad, finally letting users mark up PDFs on mobile.

Going big on gaming

Gaming could get its own home too. Apple is reportedly working on a Games app to house Arcade titles, leaderboards, and achievements in one place — possibly tied to its acquisition of indie game studio RAC7.

What else?

Other features include a virtual health coach powered by AI, battery-optimizing tools, and reverse wireless charging for iPhone 17 Pro. In Messages, live AI translation, polling, and chat wallpapers could be coming soon.

One notable omission? Siri. The revamped version teased last year still isn’t ready for prime time.

Design, not AI, may be the star of this show.