iOS 19 or iOS 26? Apple plans a big jump in how it names its software
Apple's naming conventions for its software and hardware have always felt a bit mismatched. Take the iPhone 16, for example, released in 2024, and it runs on iOS 18. It's a system that can be confusing, especially when it seems so simple to align the numbers, say, the iPhone 16 running iOS 16. Well, say no less, according to a recent report from Bloomberg, Apple may finally be tidying things up. Instead of sticking with the traditional version, the company reportedly plans to rebrand its operating systems based on the year. That means 2025's software won't be iOS 19 — it'll be called iOS 26.advertisementApple to bring iOS 26 next In a bold shake-up set to be unveiled at this year's Worldwide Developers Conference on June 9, Apple is reportedly planning to scrap its traditional operating system version numbers in favour of something a bit more futuristic.So, forget iOS 19, the next iPhone software will be dubbed iOS 26. And it's not just the iPhone getting a jump in time. iPadOS 26, macOS 26, tvOS 26, watchOS 26, and even visionOS 26 will be tagging along for the ride.
Why the time leap? It's all part of Apple's new plan to bring harmony to its OS lineup. Instead of juggling a confusing collection of mismatched numbers, like iOS 19, macOS 16, and watchOS 12, Apple's opting for a clean, calendar-based naming system. The number 26 refers to the year the software will carry users into, rather than the count of versions so far.advertisementThink of it as car models, you might buy a 2026 model in late 2025. Same logic here.But it's not just a rebrand, the new names come with a sweeping design refresh, rumoured to bring a sleek, unified look inspired by visionOS across all devices. That means iPhones, iPads, Macs, and even your Apple Watch are in for a visual glow-up.iOS 26 design change Apple's upcoming iOS 26 is set to usher in a bold new design era, drawing heavy inspiration from visionOS – the operating system that powers the Vision Pro headset. Early reports hint at a sleek, modern interface with reimagined icons, softer shapes, and more dynamic interface elements. Gone are the days of flat, rigid visuals. Instead, expect layered transparency, floating navigation bars, and curved controls that feel more tactile and alive. Even familiar apps like Camera and Messages are reportedly being refined, offering more space for content and cleaner, more elegant layouts.But this isn't just about making things prettier. Apple's goal is to create a truly unified visual language across its devices – from iPhone to iPad to Mac – delivering a more cohesive experience no matter which screen you're on. Some of the new interface elements will even respond subtly to the way the device is held, with shimmering highlights and soft motion effects giving the system a more interactive, almost futuristic feel.In short, iOS 26 is shaping up to be Apple's most visually ambitious update in years – and design is only the beginning.
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