Apple Plans Major Software Overhaul for iPhone, iPad, and Mac

Apple is gearing up for one of its biggest software redesigns in years, with a major update planned for iOS 19, iPadOS 19, and macOS 16. According to a recent Bloomberg report, this update will introduce a fresh, modern look across all Apple devices, taking inspiration from the Vision Pro’s software.

A Unified Apple Experience

The goal of this redesign is to create a more cohesive and consistent experience across Apple's ecosystem. Right now, iOS, macOS, and visionOS each have their own design language, which can feel disconnected. While Apple has no plans to merge its operating systems, the upcoming changes will make them feel more unified while keeping each platform optimized for its respective device.

This update will refresh icons, menus, apps, windows, and system buttons, making navigation smoother and more intuitive. Features from visionOS—like circular app icons, translucent panels, and enhanced depth effects—will influence the new design. The last time Apple made a change of this scale was iOS 7 in 2013 and macOS Big Sur in 2020, so expectations are high.

Why Now?

Apple’s software refresh comes at a crucial time. iPhone sales dipped during the last holiday season, and with competition heating up, Apple is looking for ways to reignite interest. A bold new interface could be a compelling reason for users to upgrade.

Additionally, this update provides a much-needed distraction from Apple’s recent AI delays, including setbacks in launching a more advanced Siri. With Apple Intelligence still in development, a software redesign could help keep momentum going while AI improvements continue behind the scenes.

Inspired by Vision Pro’s Software

Even though the Vision Pro hasn’t seen blockbuster sales, its interface is influencing Apple’s design direction. While a full 3D experience won’t be possible on iPhones and Macs, elements like simplified windows and layered depth effects could bring a fresh feel to Apple’s devices.

Leading this effort is Alan Dye, Apple’s longtime software design chief, who has been shaping the company’s aesthetic since Jony Ive’s departure in 2019. His team of over 300 designers is working to refine Apple’s next-generation software experience, though Bloomberg notes that morale challenges remain within the group.

What to Expect at WWDC

The redesign is expected to take center stage at WWDC in June, where Apple will preview iOS 19, iPadOS 19, and macOS 16. Given that over 2 billion devices run Apple’s software, any major change will have a significant impact. Past design shifts, like the Photos app update last year, sparked mixed reactions, so Apple will need to strike a balance between innovation and user familiarity.

Still, with a new interface, a push for platform consistency, and the potential for future AI integration, Apple is betting big on this overhaul to keep its ecosystem fresh and engaging for years to come.