One of the highly awaited developer conference, WWDC 2025, is all set to take place at Apple Park in Cupertino, California. The event can be watched live on apple.com, the Apple TV app, or Apple’s YouTube channel. While a number of software updates are being expected, one of the highly awaited announcement is that of the iOS 26.
Also read: Gemini AI Integration Possible for iOS 18 by Year-End
While the official word on the launch will be revealed in a few hours, Apple’s next-generation operating system, iOS 26, is being touted to be a significant update, according to reports from insiders and leaks. If the leaked features actually materialise, iOS 26 could mark a notable evolution in Apple’s software lineup, focusing on usability, compliance, and incremental innovation.
Also read: iOS 18 Might Make iPhone Apps Shockingly Smart, Know How
Expected Features of the iOS 26 to be Unveiled in WWDC 2025
With an emphasis on design refinement and practical tools, the leaks suggest that iOS 26 aims to enhance user experience without compromising efficiency. Here’s a detailed look at what is being expected from the latest update:
- A fresh design approach, named the “Liquid Glass,” is expected to give iOS 26 a polished, dynamic look. This feature reportedly adjusts to lighting changes, creating a more responsive interface. Along with this update, icons may adopt a rounded, and uniform shape for a cleaner aesthetic.
- Widgets are expected to gain additional functionality and interactivity, marking a significant improvement for home screen customization. Core apps, including Phone, Safari, and Camera, are rumored to be receiving updated designs, potentially improving navigation and usability.
- Messaging could become more interactive with two key updates namely poll creation with the aid of which users may soon create polls directly in group chats, simplifying decision-making within conversations as well as chat backgrounds on which reports suggest users will have the ability to customize chat backgrounds thus adding a personal touch to conversations.
- The lock screen might incorporate animated album art for a more immersive music experience.
- An AI-powered battery management system is reportedly in development, designed to analyze usage patterns and adjust settings dynamically to extend device battery life.
- In a move to comply with European Union regulations, Apple could introduce an alternative to Siri exclusively for EU markets. This change aligns with increasing demands for competition and choice in digital assistants.
- A new feature, Mixmoji, may allow users to combine two existing emojis into one, creating a personalized emoji that reflects more nuanced emotions or contexts.
- Stage Manager, Apple’s multitasking tool currently available on iPads, could debut on iPhones. Another rumored feature includes syncing captive Wi-Fi login credentials across devices, streamlining connectivity across the Apple ecosystem.
- Apple may add live translation capabilities to AirPods, enabling real-time conversations in multiple languages. Additionally, iPhones might gain a Preview app, making it easier to view and annotate files without relying on third-party apps.
- A new Games app is rumored to serve as a central hub for managing and accessing games, complete with built-in features like leaderboards, achievements, and cloud saves for trouble-free gameplay across devices.
