Apple's (AAPL, Financial) annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC 2025) will unveil significant updates across its ecosystem. Although anticipation around Apple's Vision Pro headset and AI features has cooled this year, the event remains pivotal for software updates that engage global users and developers.
The new iOS will showcase a major visual overhaul inspired by VisionOS, featuring updated icons, menus, and 3D shadow effects, unifying the design across iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and CarPlay. Notably, Apple will opt for a "year" naming convention (iOS 26) to simplify updates for users.
AirPods are set to introduce a "real-time interpretation" feature powered by iOS 26, facilitating seamless multilingual communication. Enhanced AirPods functionality may include head motion controls and music auto-pause.
Despite high AI expectations, Apple might not present significant advancements at this WWDC. An entry-level AI model will be available to developers, and AI integration is expected in health apps, Safari, and battery management, focusing on practicality over hype.
Speculation surrounds a new gaming app to boost the Apple Arcade ecosystem, supporting achievements and social interactions akin to Microsoft's Xbox. Hardware announcements seem unlikely, but updates to Mac Pro and VisionOS support for Sony PlayStation VR2 controllers are anticipated.
