Apple is apparently getting ready for a major overhaul of the operating systems they plan to introduce.
iPhone
,
iPad
and
Mac
. Bloomberg
reports
The upcoming iOS 19, iPadOS 19, and macOS 16 — scheduled for release during Apple’s yearly Worldwide Developers Conference in June — will feature significant alterations. These updates will encompass modifications ranging from the design of icons, menus, and applications to adjustments in window layouts and system button functionalities.
The update, described by Bloomberg as “one of the most significant software revamps in the firm’s history,” is geared towards streamlining the user interface, with an emphasis on simplifying control and navigation mechanisms for various devices. Additionally, this overhaul intends to establish a unified aesthetic across different platforms since certain applications and symbols can differ based on the type of device used.
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Using unnamed sources, Bloomberg mentioned that the design is “vaguely” inspired by the software interface of
Vision Pro, the firm’s mixed-reality headgear.
Apple introduced the Vision Pro in 2023 with varied reactions from the public. The operating system for this device, known as VisionOS, includes rounder icons, an enhanced window interface, and a stronger focus on depth and shadow effects when contrasted with iOS and macOS.
An spokesperson from Apple did not reply to requests for commentary.
The major update arrives as Apple seeks methods to revitalize its product lineup. Recently, the company experienced a 1% decline in iPhone sales over the holidays, failing to meet projections. Additionally, there have been postponements in rolling out new features or devices.
advanced AI-powered Siri
might affect sales even more, as rivals speed up their artificial intelligence projects. The revamp could additionally divert attention away from Apple’s AI endeavors during the WWDC in June.
The document indicated that this would represent the largest overhaul of iOS since iOS 7 in 2013 and the most substantial macOS upgrade since the release of the Big Sur operating system in 2020.
Reimagining a complex user journey
Jitesh Ubrani, an analyst at market research company IDC, observed that despite the advancements in iPadOS over time, numerous new features remain largely concealed from regular users. Additionally, various aspects of the interface can make the overall user experience unnecessarily complex.
He mentioned that if Apple manages to substantially revamp theiPadOS, it might boost the adoption rate of the device.
Ubrani additionally contended that updates to both macOS and iOS are essential for refining the aesthetics and user experience of these operating systems.
However, Ubrani doesn’t think that this change alone will boost sales significantly. Instead, the emphasis is on delivering a more fluid and uniform experience across all platforms, as he mentioned.
Initially released on March 11, 2025 at 12:22 PM Pacific Time.
