Latest news with #VisionOS
Geeky Gadgets
3 days ago
- Business
- Geeky Gadgets
iOS 26: A Radical Redesign & The Future of Apple's OS
Apple is poised to redefine its software ecosystem with the release of iOS 26, marking a pivotal evolution in naming conventions, design, and functionality. Announced during WWDC 2025, iOS 26 introduces a unified approach to software development, aiming to enhance usability and deliver a seamless experience across Apple's devices. This update reflects Apple's commitment to creating a more cohesive and interconnected ecosystem. Here's a detailed look at the key changes and features in a new video from Brandon Butch. Watch this video on YouTube. Unified Naming Convention Apple is transitioning to a year-based naming system for its operating systems, including iOS, macOS, watchOS, iPadOS, and VisionOS. Starting with '26' to represent 2026, this naming convention aligns software releases with their primary year of use. For example, iOS 26 will launch in late 2025 but carry the '26' label, mirroring the naming practices of industries like automotive manufacturing. This change simplifies versioning for both users and developers, offering a clearer understanding of software timelines. By standardizing names across platforms, Apple is fostering a unified identity for its ecosystem, making it easier for users to navigate updates and for developers to align their applications with the latest software. Cohesive Design Language A unified design language is at the heart of iOS 26, drawing inspiration from VisionOS. One of the standout design updates is the introduction of a floating tab bar, which will be implemented across Apple's operating systems. This feature enhances navigation and multitasking, providing a consistent user experience whether you're using an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. The floating tab bar is designed to make switching between apps more intuitive, reducing friction and improving productivity. This design evolution underscores Apple's commitment to creating a seamless ecosystem where devices feel interconnected and familiar, making sure that users can transition effortlessly between platforms. Stage Manager Expands to iPhones One of the most anticipated features of iOS 26 is the introduction of Stage Manager for iPhones. Previously exclusive to iPads, this multitasking tool allows users to organize apps and windows into groups, making it easier to switch between tasks and manage workflows. Stage Manager transforms the iPhone into a more versatile productivity device, particularly for professionals who rely on their phones for work. By allowing better multitasking, Apple is positioning the iPhone as a tool that bridges the gap between casual use and professional needs, enhancing its appeal to a broader audience. Dedicated Gaming App For gaming enthusiasts, iOS 26 introduces a dedicated gaming app designed to centralize the gaming experience. This hub will allow users to launch games, track achievements, view leaderboards, and access editorial content—all from a single location. The app is also expected to extend to macOS, potentially supporting games downloaded outside the App Store. This move highlights Apple's growing focus on gaming, catering to both casual players and dedicated gamers. By expanding its ecosystem to include a robust gaming platform, Apple is positioning itself as a serious contender in the gaming industry. eSIM Wireless Transfer Switching devices becomes more seamless with iOS 26's eSIM wireless transfer feature. This functionality allows users to transfer their eSIM from an iPhone to an Android device without the need for manual processes or carrier intervention. This update reflects Apple's recognition of the importance of interoperability in a multi-platform world. By simplifying the process of switching devices, Apple is making its ecosystem more accessible and user-friendly, catering to users who operate across different platforms. AI-Powered Battery Management Battery life remains a top priority for users, and iOS 26 addresses this with an AI-powered battery management system. This feature analyzes usage patterns to make personalized energy-saving adjustments, making sure devices last longer throughout the day. Additionally, real-time charging indicators on the lock screen provide better insights into power consumption. These updates give users greater control over their battery life, optimizing performance while maintaining energy efficiency. AirPods Live Translation Breaking down language barriers, iOS 26 introduces AirPods Live Translation, a feature that enables real-time language translation during conversations. The translated output is delivered directly through AirPods, making it an invaluable tool for travelers and professionals. Whether communicating abroad or engaging with someone who speaks a different language, this feature promises to make interactions smoother and more accessible. It represents a significant step forward in using technology to bridge cultural and linguistic divides. Release Timing and Speculation The adoption of a year-based naming convention has sparked speculation about whether Apple will extend this approach to its hardware lineup, such as iPhones. While no concrete rumors suggest such a shift, the idea remains intriguing and aligns with Apple's broader strategy of unifying its ecosystem. For now, the focus remains on software. iOS 26 and its counterparts are set to roll out in late 2025, with a public release scheduled for 2026. This timeline ensures that developers and users have ample time to adapt to the changes, paving the way for a smooth transition to the new features and updates. Looking Ahead iOS 26 represents a significant evolution in Apple's approach to software development. From the unified naming convention and cohesive design language to innovative features like Stage Manager, AirPods Live Translation, and AI-powered battery management, this update is designed to enhance usability and connectivity across devices. As Apple continues to refine its ecosystem, iOS 26 underscores its commitment to innovation and user experience. Whether you're a casual user, a professional, or a tech enthusiast, these updates promise to deliver a more intuitive and interconnected future, solidifying Apple's position as a leader in the tech industry. Dive deeper into iOS 26 with other articles and guides we have written below. Source & Image Credit: Brandon Butch Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
5 days ago
- Business
- Geeky Gadgets
Apple tvOS 19: Apple TV's Vision Pro Makeover Revealed
Apple is preparing to redefine the Apple TV experience in 2025 with significant updates to both its hardware and software. The introduction of tvOS 19 and a next-generation Apple TV model is set to modernize the platform, enhance usability, and deepen its integration into Apple's ecosystem. Whether you are a long-time Apple TV user or considering adopting the platform, these updates promise to elevate how you interact with your home entertainment system. The video below from MacRumors gives us more details on what to expect from tvOS 19. Watch this video on YouTube. tvOS 19: A Unified and Intuitive Experience The upcoming tvOS 19 will bring a fresh visual overhaul inspired by Vision OS, offering a more cohesive and modern design. The interface will feature translucent UI elements, such as frosted glass effects and floating menus, creating a sleek and immersive aesthetic. By aligning its design language with iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, tvOS 19 will ensure a seamless experience across Apple devices, making it easier for you to navigate and interact with your ecosystem. Beyond its visual appeal, tvOS 19 is designed to improve functionality. The updated interface will focus on intuitive navigation and enhanced accessibility, making sure that every interaction feels natural and efficient. Whether you are streaming your favorite series, exploring apps, or discovering new features, tvOS 19 aims to make the experience smoother and more engaging. Next-Generation Apple TV Hardware Apple is expected to unveil a new Apple TV model in late 2025, introducing advanced features that could redefine its role in your living room. One of the most anticipated additions is a built-in camera, allowing FaceTime and video conferencing directly on your TV. This feature will provide a more immersive way to connect with family and friends, transforming how you communicate from the comfort of your home. The new Apple TV is also rumored to support innovative wireless standards like Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7, making sure faster and more reliable connectivity. This upgrade will be particularly beneficial for streaming high-resolution content and online gaming, where speed and stability are critical. At its core, the device is expected to feature the A17 Pro chip, delivering enhanced performance, seamless multitasking, and console-quality gaming capabilities. Gaming: Immersive Console-Quality Experiences For gaming enthusiasts, the 2025 Apple TV could deliver a fantastic experience. With hardware-accelerated ray tracing, the device is expected to offer stunning visuals, enhancing lighting, shadows, and reflections in games. This technology will bring console-quality graphics to your living room, making gameplay more immersive and visually impressive. The Apple TV is also likely to support Bluetooth controllers, making sure compatibility with a wide range of gaming accessories. Popular titles such as *Resident Evil 4* and *Death Stranding* could expand the Apple TV gaming library, providing you with a premium gaming experience without the need for a dedicated console. This evolution positions the Apple TV as a serious contender in the gaming space, appealing to both casual and dedicated gamers. Smart Home Integration and AI-Driven Personalization The new Apple TV is set to strengthen its role as a smart home hub, offering seamless integration with devices that support Thread and Matter protocols. This compatibility will allow you to connect and manage a wide range of smart home devices, from lighting systems to thermostats, all through your Apple TV. By serving as a centralized hub, the device will simplify your smart home setup and enable advanced automation, making your connected home more efficient and intuitive. Artificial intelligence will also play a pivotal role in enhancing the Apple TV experience. AI-powered features are expected to refine content recommendations, helping you discover shows, movies, and games tailored to your preferences. Additionally, improved search functionality will make it easier to find exactly what you are looking for, saving time and effort while enhancing overall usability. These advancements aim to create a more personalized and user-friendly entertainment experience. Pricing and Release Timeline While the inclusion of advanced features like the A17 Pro chip and built-in camera may influence pricing, Apple is reportedly exploring ways to make the new Apple TV more accessible to a broader audience. This approach could help maintain the premium quality Apple is known for while appealing to a wider range of users. The release of tvOS 19 is expected in the coming months, with the new Apple TV hardware likely to debut between September and December 2025. Together, these updates promise to deliver a more versatile and powerful Apple TV experience, whether your focus is on entertainment, gaming, or smart home integration. Gain further expertise in Apple TV 2025 by checking out these recommendations. Source & Image Credit: MacRumors Filed Under: Apple, Technology News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Digital Trends
6 days ago
- Business
- Digital Trends
5 lost iOS features I want to see return in iOS 19
In the second week of June, Apple will give the world a glimpse of its jazzed-up operating systems. From iPhones to the Apple Watch, a major redesign is expected. Though I've always yearned for a return to the skeuomorphism look, we are hearing that Apple is eying a unified aesthetic language that is more reminiscent of Vision OS running on its uber-expensive headset. A lot of eyes and ears will hunt for AI-related announcements, especially in the wake of Apple Intelligence flubs and delays. On the more practical side of things, an AI fitness coach might land this year with the iOS 19 update. But after going through all the hype and rumors, I hope Apple brings back the following features that it abandoned years ago: Recommended Videos Game Center app Apple removed the Game Center app with the arrival of iOS 10 back in 2016. It continued to live on under the same name, but not as a standalone app. Instead, the company started to call it 'Apple's social gaming network' and buried it within the Settings app. It's time Apple brought it back. Over the past few years, the gaming ecosystem has changed a lot. Apple is now host to AAA titles such as Resident Evil and Death Stranding, and more heavy-hitters are on the way. The Apple Arcade library is its own little universe of some beautiful games. Plus, users now stream games across a variety of services such as Xbox Cloud and Nvidia GeForce Now. What Apple needs right now, is a dedicated app that serves as a one-stop shop for all the gaming needs of iPhone users. Something like a dedicated launcher, with its own set of tools for utilities like screen capture, social sharing, and even some performance tuning. The Backbone app shipping with the eponymous controller is a fantastic example of how a revived Game Center app should pan out. Plus, there are a few rumors from last year claiming that a unified gaming app was in the works at Apple, so there's that, too. Landscape home screen There is no better time to pull this off than iOS 19. We recently came across murmurs of Apple cooking up a desktop mode for iPhones, something that would be similar to the concept of DeX mode on Samsung phones. While at it, why not bring back a rotating home screen to the iPhone? Apple used to offer a landscape home screen mode exclusively on its first-gen 'Plus' smartphones, such as the iPhone 6 Plus. The idea was to make the best of that 'large' 5.5-inch screen real estate. It was not merely a shuffled placement for app icons and widgets, but also included some extra functionalities, as well. With the arrival of iPhones with Face ID, Apple abandoned the concept. Years later, a landscape-oriented Standby mode arrived on iPhones, delivering a more stylus and glance-friendly lock screen experience. Apple needs to build on those foundations and bring back the horizontal home screen mode. Also, the company is working on foldable phones, so it's quite likely that a more adaptable home screen system is on the horizon for iOS. I just hope that a prelude for it lands with the rumored desktop mode due for an appearance at WWDC next month. A full-screen Siri I still don't understand why Siri hasn't returned to its full-screen roots, despite Apple now offering a world-understanding AI feature called Visual Intelligence. Google, on the other hand, has really offered all the flexibility. You can choose to invoke Circle to Search at any spot in the Android UI. Then you have Gemini Live, which can chat, look at the screen, or the world around you through the camera. Soon, it will even be able to talk about data stored in your Google ecosystem apps. Essentially, it's become the 'everything AI' app. Apple is not too far, but the approach is pretty scattered. You can invoke Siri, which then offloads to ChatGPT. For Visual Intelligence, it's a different UI flow and a shortcut. Why not bake it all neatly on a full-screen interface, with dedicated buttons for the marquee tools in the corner or a bottom bar, while leaving the rest of the screen for users (and the AI) to make sense of. Siri used to hog all the screen space up until iOS 14, but its capabilities were extremely limited. Now that AI has reimagined what a personal assistant can accomplish, a full-screen functional makeover for Siri is something I desperately wish iOS 19 could bring to the table. Live Wallpapers One of the more underrated but aesthetically pleasing elements of iPhones, not too long ago, was live wallpapers. With the arrival of iOS 16, it rode into the sunset. In case you're not familiar, Live Wallpapers were, well, wallpapers that were dynamic, but only kicked into animated action when you long-pressed on the screen. There was a whole category of live wallpapers in the settings section, alongside a Dynamic preset, as well. Apple removed the system because the long-press gesture now invokes the extensive lock-screen customization system. But I guess now is the right time to bring it back, with some user customization facility. Apple already has some impressive text-to-image AI features ready within the Apple Intelligence stack. Elsewhere, partners like OpenAI are already doing text-to-video. Why not bring some of that magic to let users create their own unique live wallpapers and watch them come alive, probably by letting them customize tap-to-wake or double-tap-on-screen gestures? Doing so won't overlap with the existing long-press gesture for lock screen changes, while also letting users express their creative side on the iPhone's screen. Come on, Apple, bring some fun back with iOS 19, will ya? 3D Touch Yes, we're still talking about 3D touch again, over half a decade after its demise. A system that took advantage of pressure-sensing to perform contextual actions, 3D touch was a clever way to do more with less. It was replaced with Haptic Touch, with the gap is still felt among fans. If Apple somehow manages to revive it with iOS 19, it would make a lot of sense. Look no further than AI for that. A normal press opens the app, but a pressure-sensitive tap opens a contextual window where either Siri, shortcuts, or a third-party agent takes over. For example, instead of opening a transcriber app, simply long-press on a recording, and move the action to a next-gen Siri, which can also handle a few extra steps like summarization, format conversion, and translation while at it. Make it all contextually-aware, while at it. Bloomberg recently reported that Apple was planning to expand its in-house AI models to app developers. I believe it's a good time to bring back 3D touch, and let it rewrite the user experience for iPhone users once again, one where they are in control while also possessing the flexibility to offload their chores to AI models.
Geeky Gadgets
21-05-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
WWDC 2025 Secrets Revealed? Major Leaks Surface Ahead of the Event
Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal event, with leaked details suggesting significant updates across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. These updates aim to refine design consistency, enhance functionality, and strengthen cross-platform integration. By focusing on improving user experiences while maintaining the distinct strengths of each platform, Apple appears to be redefining how its ecosystem operates. Here's an in-depth look at what these changes could mean for you. The video below from GregsGadgets gives us more details. Watch this video on YouTube. iOS 19: A VisionOS-Inspired Redesign The upcoming iOS 19 is rumored to feature a bold visual overhaul, drawing inspiration from VisionOS. This redesign is expected to introduce a sleek, glass-like aesthetic with enhanced depth and transparency, creating a more immersive and visually engaging interface. While app icons may see subtle refinements—such as improved gradients and shadows—a complete shift to circular icons is considered unlikely, preserving the familiar design language. One of the most anticipated updates is a smarter, AI-powered Siri. Using advanced machine learning, Siri could become more contextually aware, allowing it to assist with tasks like battery optimization, app suggestions, and connectivity management. These enhancements aim to make your iPhone more intuitive, adapting seamlessly to your habits and preferences for a more personalized experience. iPadOS 19: Productivity and Multitasking Redefined For iPad users, iPadOS 19 is expected to focus on elevating productivity and multitasking capabilities. Leaks suggest that Apple may introduce improved app window management, allowing you to resize and organize apps with greater flexibility. This would bring iPadOS closer to macOS workflows while maintaining its touch-first interface, making sure that the iPad remains a versatile tool for both work and leisure. Another rumored feature is mode auto-detection. When paired with accessories like the Magic Keyboard, your iPad could automatically adjust its interface to prioritize tasks such as typing, multitasking, or creative work. This adaptive functionality would further position the iPad as a powerful hybrid device, capable of seamlessly transitioning between professional and personal use. macOS: A Step Toward Touchscreen Compatibility macOS is also rumored to receive a significant visual update, aligning its design more closely with iOS and iPadOS. This redesign would unify Apple's platforms, making navigation and functionality feel more consistent across devices. The changes aim to simplify the user experience while retaining the desktop-first workflows that macOS users value. Speculation about touchscreen MacBooks has gained momentum, with macOS's rumored interface adjustments hinting at potential touchscreen compatibility. While no official announcements have been made, these updates suggest that Apple may be preparing for a future where MacBooks support touch-based input. If realized, this would represent a major evolution in how you interact with Mac devices, blending traditional desktop functionality with modern touch capabilities. Cross-Platform Integration: A Unified and Seamless Ecosystem A central theme of WWDC 2025 appears to be the strengthening of cross-platform integration. By unifying design elements and streamlining navigation, Apple aims to create a more cohesive experience across its ecosystem. This approach would allow you to transition effortlessly between devices, whether you're working on a Mac, browsing on an iPad, or managing tasks on an iPhone. Interoperability between devices is also expected to improve. Features like Universal Control and Handoff could become even more seamless, allowing you to move between devices with minimal friction. For example, you might start editing a document on your Mac and continue seamlessly on your iPad without losing context. Despite these advancements, Apple is committed to preserving the unique identities of its platforms. macOS will continue to prioritize desktop-first workflows, while iPadOS will retain its touch-centric approach, making sure that each platform excels in its intended use cases. Looking Ahead: Apple's Vision for the Future Beyond WWDC 2025, Apple's focus on hardware-software integration is likely to drive further innovation. While a complete merger of macOS and iPadOS seems improbable, their capabilities may continue to converge, offering you greater flexibility without compromising the strengths of either platform. This convergence could result in a more unified ecosystem that adapts to your needs, whether you're working, creating, or relaxing. The rumored introduction of touchscreen MacBooks could also signal a broader shift in Apple's hardware strategy. By blending traditional input methods with touch-based interactions, Apple may redefine how you engage with its devices. This evolution would not only enhance usability but also expand the possibilities for creative and professional workflows. As Apple continues to push the boundaries of design and functionality, the future of its ecosystem promises to be more connected, intuitive, and versatile. Whether you're an iPhone user, an iPad enthusiast, or a Mac devotee, these developments are set to deliver a more seamless and integrated experience, tailored to your needs and preferences. Enhance your knowledge on WWDC 2025 by exploring a selection of articles and guides on the subject. Source & Image Credit: GregsGadgets Filed Under: Apple, Technology News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
TechCrunch
20-05-2025
- TechCrunch
Apple will hold WWDC from June 9 to June 13
Apple sent invites for its developer-focused event, Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), which will be held from June 9 to June 13 with an 'On the horizon' tagline. The company will likely announce new versions of its operating systems, namely iOS 19, iPadOS 19, WatchOS 12, macOS 16, and visionOS 3. The developer conference is both in person and online, with Apple introducing online group sessions for the first time, according to the announcement page. The company will also announce a slew of Apple Intelligence-related features. Reports suggest that these will include intelligent battery management and a virtual health assistant. In iOS 19, iPadOS 19, and macOS 16, Apple will reportedly bring a ton of visual changes with a design language that would be in line with the VisionOS user interface. A report from Bloomberg noted that the company will revamp icons, menus, apps, windows, and system buttons while simplifying navigation and control. The story is developing…
