TECH

Apple prepares iOS revolution

The technology giant is about to radically change the identity of its operating systems, combining a new naming policy with the biggest visual redesign in the last decade. These changes, scheduled for September 2025, promise to redefine the interaction with Apple devices worldwide.

Inspired by practices in the automotive industry, Apple will replace the current numerical sequence with a direct reference to the year of release. This strategy applies to the entire ecosystem:

-iOS 19 will become iOS 26

-macOS 15 evolves into macOS 26

-iPadOS, watchOS, tvOS and visionOS follow the same pattern

The change aims to eliminate the confusion caused by the current version system, where sequential numbers do not reflect the actual age of the software. Developers and end users will gain greater clarity in identifying compatibility between devices.

The internal “Solarium” project represents the biggest aesthetic update since iOS 7. Sources close to the development reveal a complete redesign of the interface elements, with particular attention to visual coherence between iPhone, Mac and iPad. The San Francisco typography will receive subtle adjustments for better readability, while the icons will adopt a semi-realistic style with dynamic shadows.

This graphic unification responds to criticisms about visual fragmentation between devices, particularly evident in recent versions of iPadOS. The new approach is expected to facilitate the transition between screens of different sizes without compromising the visual identity of the brand.

In addition to the cosmetic changes, iOS 26 will introduce practical tools that expand the possibilities of the devices. The Camera app will receive a simplified interface with advanced manual controls, while support for external displays will allow the iPhone to become a mobile workstation via USB-C connection.

In iPadOS 26, the adoption of a menu bar similar to that of macOS marks a decisive step in the convergence between tablet and computer. This change is accompanied by an intelligent multitasking system that automatically adapts the layout to the applications in use. The feature will allow the screen to be divided into up to four active areas, with simplified file management between different software programs.

The strategy of changing the name and updating the look comes in a context of fierce competition in the European smartphone market. Analysts suggest that these changes could facilitate adoption by users less familiar with technical terminology, while also reinforcing the brand's identity against rivals such as Samsung and Google. Official confirmation is scheduled for June 9, during the annual conference for developers in California.

mundophone