Apple’s WWDC 2025 revealed a new unified design called Liquid Glass for all platforms, a significant update since iOS 7. Notable features include a revamped communication layout, the introduction of a Games app, and enhancements in iPadOS and macOS. Beta versions will be available in July, with developers able to access the iOS 26 beta immediately. Amidst the announcements, Apple’s commitment to seamless integration of their ecosystem stood out.
Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025 kicked off with a wealth of announcements and a fresh look at their software ecosystem. The highlight? A bold new unified design dubbed Liquid Glass which is set to touch all of its major platforms including iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS. The new versioning scheme for these operating systems will mostly run under the umbrella of version number 26, with the exception of macOS Tahoe 26, named after the scenic mountain region. Developers now have a clearer incentive to start integrating these features into their upcoming releases.
The event started with a lively promotional video featuring Craig Federighi racing in an F1 car to highlight an upcoming movie produced by Apple TV Plus. This surely set the stage for a creative vibe throughout the conference. For those who prefer a live action recap, an archived live blog is available, complete with memes inspired by the event’s closing song.
The public betas are slated for release in July, but developers can access the first beta of iOS 26 starting now. Liquid Glass, known for its stunning translucency effects, marks Apple’s first major overhaul since iOS 7. Inspired heavily by VisionOS, this new aesthetic emphasizes dynamic viewing angles that give a lens-like quality to the interface, suggesting a boost in both beauty and functionality.
The new communications layout unifies the Phone and FaceTime apps, allowing for smoother interactions. Exciting new features like Call Screening and Hold Assist aim to enhance user experience, while the Games app combines gaming in a more social context, offering a home for Apple Arcade and a platform for group challenges. It’s a big step forward for gaming on Apple devices with controller compatibility now available, taking usability to another level.
In messages, users can expect features like customizable backgrounds that travel across chats and the ability to request Apple Cash in group threads. The emoji feature has seen improvements, allowing for more creativity in expressions. Live Translation is now part of the communications app, expanding accessibility even if the calling party is not on an iPhone.
Updates to Photos include streamlined access to camera modes and revamped organizational tools, plus the return of Library and Collections tabs. This makes searching for and editing photos easier while enhancing music interaction through live lyric displays and more intelligent widgets. Maps are getting smarter too, learning user preferences for routes and providing timely travel estimates.
The iPadOS 26 update brings in more Mac-like features, including a new windowing system that enhances multitasking capabilities, making it easier to manage various apps. A persistent menu bar has been integrated, similar to desktop operating systems, allowing for a seamless transition between iPad and Mac functionalities. Files has seen considerable updates as well, now more user-friendly and detailed.
Not to be left out, macOS Tahoe 26 incorporates many of these aesthetic updates along with new functionalities aimed at improving user experience. The updated Mac includes features like a control center and a host of intelligent shortcuts to increase efficiency. The Games app will now feature overlays to enhance gameplay experience, while Metal 4 improves overall graphics quality across the board.
Apple Watch’s latest OS update introduces Workout Buddy, offering coaching services and a more interactive experience. Meanwhile, Apple TV Plus continues to innovate with new show announcements and streamlined access. And for VisionOS 26, deeper reality integration is promised with persistent overlays and personalized widgets, showing Apple’s commitment to enhancing the interconnectedness of its platforms.
As excitement ripples through the Apple community, developers and users alike will be eager to experiment with these innovative features. WWDC 2025 showcased not only Apple’s advancements but also their vision for a more unified and feature-rich experience across all devices.
