At its highly anticipated Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025, Apple announced a sweeping rebrand of its entire operating system lineup, introducing iOS 26, macOS 26, and similarly named updates for all its platforms. The tech giant is moving away from its traditional sequential numbering system like iOS 19 and macOS 19 in favor of a new naming convention that incorporates the release year. Going forward, users will see iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, tvOS 26, watchOS 26, and visionOS 26.
Apple says this change is designed to make its software versions clearer and easier to follow, aligning with industry trends set by rivals like Samsung and Microsoft. The new system aims to eliminate confusion about which version is the latest and to streamline communication about updates across Apple’s vast ecosystem.
Beyond the rebranding, Apple also unveiled a striking new design language for its operating systems, dubbed "Liquid Glass." This overhaul introduces a transparent, fluid interface that marks the most significant visual update since iOS 7. The fresh look is intended to unify the user experience across devices and set a new standard for modern, intuitive design.
These announcements signal a bold new era for Apple’s software, promising not only greater clarity for users but also a visually stunning and cohesive experience across all Apple devices. As developers and users alike await the rollout of iOS 26 and macOS 26, Apple’s rebranding move is already being hailed as a smart step toward simplicity and innovation in the ever-evolving world of technology.