Apple’s Operating System Naming Overhaul in 2025

Apple is making preparations to transform its approach to naming its operating systems, moving from traditional version numbers to a system based on the year. This closely aligns with naming conventions adopted by automotive companies and competitors like Microsoft. As reported by Bloomberg, the upcoming Apple software updates, scheduled to be revealed at WWDC on 9 June, will feature a new naming format associated with the next calendar year.

This means that the significant iOS update slated for this autumn will be referred to as iOS 26 rather than iOS 19 as anticipated. This shift extends across Apple’s software portfolio, with forthcoming versions set to take on the names iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26. The designation 26 refers not to the release year (2025), but rather to the subsequent year (2026), mirroring the naming conventions adopted by car manufacturers.

Simplifying Apple’s Software Versioning

The primary goal of this change is to streamline and standardise Apple’s previously confusing versioning system, which currently features diverse names such as iOS 18, watchOS 12, macOS 15, and visionOS 2. This inconsistency has often led to misunderstandings among users and developers.

Major Visual Overhaul at WWDC 2025

In conjunction with the rebranding, Apple is likely to unveil a substantial visual refresh of its operating systems during WWDC 2025. Drawing inspiration from the elegant, spatial interface of visionOS featured on the Vision Pro headset, this design overhaul might represent one of the most significant user interface updates in recent years, promising to harmonise the visual aesthetic across iPhones, iPads, Macs, and other Apple devices.

Focus on Software Not Hardware

It is important to note that this new naming strategy seems to be limited to Apple’s software offerings. There currently appears to be no intention for Apple to rename its hardware products, meaning the forthcoming iPhone 17 will not be designated as the iPhone 26.

Apple has yet to issue an official statement regarding the anticipated changes. Further information is expected during the WWDC keynote, set to commence on 9 June at 10am PT (10:30pm IST).