As Apple gears up to unveil iOS 19 at WWDC 2025 on Monday, various rumors have emerged regarding potential updates, including a new name for the operating system, a complete design overhaul inspired by the Vision Pro, and more.
Here’s a summary of the most notable features rumored for iOS 19:
New Name
Sources from Bloomberg indicate that Apple plans to rename its operating systems to reflect the release year instead of version numbers. For instance, iOS 19 may become iOS 26, similar to how car models are designated. This naming convention will also apply to other updates, such as iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26.
Major Design Overhaul
iOS 19 is expected to feature the most significant design change since iOS 7, with a visual overhaul reportedly inspired by Apple’s Vision Pro headset. This may include translucent navigation panels and circular app icons, aimed at creating a more cohesive experience across Apple’s ecosystem.
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Dedicated Gaming App
Rumors suggest Apple will introduce a gaming app that integrates Apple Arcade with the App Store’s game offerings, providing a central hub for achievements, leaderboards, and content. This follows the company’s acquisition of its first game studio, RAC7.
Virtual Health Coach
Apple may develop an AI feature to act as a personal health coach, offering lifestyle advice based on data collected from the Health app. Additionally, the Health app might be revamped to include food-tracking capabilities for logging carbohydrate and caffeine intake.
Smarter Battery Management
Improvements in battery health management could come with AI-powered features that analyze device usage to optimize battery life. A new charging icon on the lock screen may also provide estimated charging times. Reports suggest that reverse wireless charging is being tested on the iPhone 17 Pro, allowing users to charge accessories like AirPods directly from their iPhones.
AI Translation for Messages
According to 9to5Mac, the Messages app is set to receive a translation feature powered by Apple Intelligence, which would automatically translate messages as they arrive. Additionally, a polling feature may be introduced for group chats, offering AI-generated poll suggestions.
What About Siri?
One notable absence from the rumors is the enhanced Siri capabilities showcased in Apple’s 2024 presentation, which featured a more context-aware assistant. The company noted in March that these features have been delayed.
While AI-related announcements are expected, the primary focus will likely be on design changes. Reports indicate that improvements to existing Apple Intelligence features and some new additions will also be revealed.
SOURCE: TECH CRUNCH
