Apple takes action to simplify its complex operating system labels.
Apple to Streamline Software Branding with Year-Based Naming System
As per reports from Apple Insider, the tech giant plans to consolidate its software stack under a unified branding strategy, beginning after this year's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC).
Though Apple has remained silent on the subject, sources close to the company have confirmed to Bloomberg that the separate version names of iOS, macOS, iPadOS, watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS will be brought under a single umbrella. Following Microsoft's example from the '90s and early 2000s, the new strategy involves adding the upcoming year to the operating system names.
For instance, current versions iOS 18 and watchOS 12, which were initially released far apart, would be renamed iOS 26 and watchOS 26, respectively. Similarly, Samsung implemented a straightforward numbering system with its Galaxy phones starting in 2020, skipping the S11 and moving directly to S20. Unlike Samsung, Apple will be naming for the year ahead.
The Bloomberg report suggests that iOS 26 will be launched in 2025, akin to car manufacturers' branding model where the year is incorporated into the name.
Apart from this naming shift, Apple reportedly has other plans for WWDC 2025. There are whispers of significant improvements to the iPadOS experience, making it more akin to the Mac in terms of productivity, app management, and multitasking.
Moreover, the event is expected to feature advancements in AI. Apple is rumored to open up access to its AI models for third-party developers, allowing the exploitation of Apple Intelligence on compatible devices. There are also plans for an AI-powered battery management feature for iPhones, though details remain scarce.
Stay tuned for more updates when Apple takes the stage on June 9 at the annual developer conference.
Additional Information
The overhaul is expected to bring a substantial redesign across Apple's software offerings, codenamed "Solarium." This update will introduce a unified visual language reminiscent of visionOS, featuring revamped icons, translucent menus, and refreshed app and system button designs. The entire software suite, including iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS, is set for significant changes, marking the most extensive UI update since iOS 7.
Furthermore, Apple's AI integration is expected to permeate its platforms, with AI-optimized battery performance, intelligent health and fitness tools for watchOS, and AI-scripted message replies. While substantial improvements to Siri may not be widely available until 2026, the virtual assistant is also slated for updates.
Cross-platform feature parity is another expected development, ensuring a more consistent user experience across devices. WatchOS and visionOS are expected to receive updates as well, though possibly less dramatic compared to other platforms.
Finally, while the focus is primarily on software, there may be some hardware announcements or hints at future products, such as smart glasses based on the Apple Vision Pro platform.
- In light of Apple's plan to consolidate its software branding, one might anticipate a review of the upcoming 'iOS 26' laptop to analyze its compatibility with the new AI models and battery management features compared to Windows and Mac laptops, particularly considering the anticipated improvements to battery life.
- As Apple prepares to unveil significant improvements to the iPadOS experience in WWDC 2025, making it more similar to the Mac, budget-conscious consumers might consider a Mac laptop as a viable alternative, since the new iPadOS could potentially offer a more productive environment akin to a Mac laptop.
- With the anticipated advancements in technology and AI at WWDC 2025, tech enthusiasts may keep an eye on both Mac and Windows laptops, eager to examine how they compare to Apple's new AI-powered battery management feature for iPhones, as well as the potential release of smart glasses based on the Apple Vision Pro platform.
