What to Expect at Apple WWDC 2025: iOS Updates, AI and Gaming
Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025 is set to take place on Monday, June 9, and the company is expected to showcase a range of software updates and new features. Historically, WWDC has been a platform for unveiling new products alongside updates to Apple’s operating systems, but this year’s conference may take a different turn, with no major hardware announcements anticipated. iPhone launches, typically held in September, are unlikely to be part of the event, making this year’s WWDC primarily focused on software.
One of the most significant changes expected from WWDC 2025 is the potential update to iOS, Apple’s flagship operating system for mobile devices. The company may introduce a new naming convention, skipping iOS 19 entirely and moving directly to iOS 26. This leap could signify a shift in Apple’s approach to its software, with the version numbers aligning more closely with the year of release. This would also set the stage for future operating systems, such as iOS 27, 28, and 29, which would mirror the years in which they are introduced.
Alongside the change in naming, the visual design of Apple’s software is likely to undergo a substantial transformation. Reports suggest that the new look will be consistent across Apple’s entire ecosystem of devices, including the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV. The changes could be influenced by the design seen in Apple’s Vision Pro operating system, which is tailored for mixed reality. However, it remains unclear how a design created for a mixed-reality headset might be adapted to devices like smartphones and smartwatches.
Another major development could be the introduction of a new gaming app. Apple may replace its current Game Center, a platform launched in 2010, with a revamped app that is preinstalled on its devices. The new app could emphasize social gaming, which has seen growing popularity in recent years. While Apple Arcade, the company’s subscription-based service, remains active, a dedicated gaming app could signal a renewed focus on the gaming market, offering a more integrated experience across Apple’s devices.
In addition to gaming, Apple is expected to open up its foundational AI models to third-party developers. This move would allow developers to integrate Apple’s large language models into their own apps, potentially giving rise to more advanced AI features on iPhones. While Apple’s initial foray into AI was met with mixed reactions, including criticism of erroneous summaries in notifications, the company may be looking to refine and expand its AI capabilities. The introduction of an AI development kit could open the door to more sophisticated and user-driven AI experiences on Apple devices.
Despite these software advancements, there are a few things that are unlikely to be announced at WWDC 2025. Apple is not expected to reveal any new hardware, such as iPhones, iPads, or MacBooks. The company’s hardware refreshes are typically reserved for separate events later in the year, and no leaks or rumors suggest any major hardware announcements at this year’s conference. This means that while software features will likely dominate the spotlight, Apple fans will have to wait until later in the year for news of new devices.
Similarly, while Apple’s Siri voice assistant could eventually receive an overhaul, it is unlikely to be a focal point of WWDC 2025. Rumors of a generative AI version of Siri have circulated, but such a project would require more development before being ready for release. As a result, a major update to Siri seems unlikely at this stage.
Finally, while AI is expected to be a prominent theme at the conference, the focus will likely be on developer tools rather than consumer-facing features. While Apple may introduce a few new AI-powered features, such as a rumored AI tracker to help extend battery life on iPhones, WWDC 2025 will likely prioritize the development of tools for third-party developers rather than directly showcasing new AI-driven features for consumers.
