Apple is gearing up to introduce iOS 19 at WWDC 2025, with rumors swirling about potential new features like a fresh name for the operating system, a gaming app, and a virtual health coach. The update is expected to include a major design overhaul inspired by the Vision Pro headset, among other exciting developments.
As the tech world eagerly awaits Apple’s unveiling of iOS 19 at WWDC 2025, speculation runs rampant about what new features the operating system may bring. From a possible renaming to a sleek design overhaul reminiscent of the Vision Pro headset, here’s a rundown of the most buzzworthy rumors surrounding iOS 19.
New name
Insiders suggest that Apple is considering a significant rebranding strategy for its operating systems, with plans to shift towards naming them after release years rather than version numbers. This could mean iOS 19 will be rechristened as iOS 26, aligning with the naming conventions of car model years. The renaming may extend to other software updates like iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26.
Major design overhaul
Anticipated as the most substantial design revamp since iOS 7, the upcoming update is rumored to feature a complete visual makeover inspired by Apple’s Vision Pro headset. Dubbed “Liquid Glass” by insiders, the redesign may incorporate translucent panels for navigation and circular app icons, aiming to create a more cohesive user experience across Apple’s ecosystem, including CarPlay.
Among the apps expected to receive significant updates are the Phone app, Camera, and Safari, with rumored enhancements like a consolidated view for favorite contacts, recent calls, and voicemails in the Phone app, as well as visual tweaks like a transparent address bar for Safari.
Dedicated gaming app
Rumors suggest that Apple may introduce a dedicated gaming app that integrates Apple Arcade and the App Store’s game offerings into a centralized hub for achievements, leaderboards, and content. This move follows Apple’s acquisition of game studio RAC7, signaling a deeper commitment to the gaming sector.
Virtual health coach
Apple is reportedly exploring the development of an AI-powered personal health coach feature that could offer lifestyle recommendations and health advice based on user data from the Health app. Additionally, the Health app may undergo a revamp to include a food-tracking feature for logging carbohydrate and caffeine intake.
Smarter battery management
Speculations suggest that Apple might enhance iPhone battery health with AI-powered battery management, analyzing device usage patterns to optimize battery life. Another rumored feature is a new charging icon on the lock screen providing estimated full charge times, along with potential testing of reverse wireless charging capabilities for iPhone 17 Pro models.
AI translation for Messages
The Messages app could see the integration of an Apple Intelligence-powered translation feature for automatic message translation upon receipt, as well as AI-driven polling capabilities for group chats. Additional updates may include the ability to set background images, akin to popular messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Instagram.
Preview app
Apple is rumored to introduce its Preview app to iPad and iPhone users, enabling them to annotate and edit PDFs directly on their devices. This preinstalled app could streamline document management for users across Apple’s ecosystem.
New Genmoji feature
Reports suggest a small yet intriguing addition to Genmoji that allows users to combine standard emojis creatively, offering a new level of personalization and expression in messaging.
What about Siri?
Notably absent from the rumor mill is Siri’s anticipated advancements showcased in Apple’s 2024 presentation, with delayed features expected due to development setbacks. While AI-related announcements are on the horizon, the focus of iOS 19 is likely to center around design enhancements and refinements to existing Apple Intelligence features.
Stay tuned for more updates on these rumors as they unfold, shaping the landscape of Apple’s latest operating system.
This story was originally published on June 3 and will be continuously updated with the latest insights.
