Apple could swap all OS model numbers to years and roll out the identify adjustments at WWDC25 on June 9, in keeping with a brand new report. The iPhone large will reportedly transfer from model numbers to a year-based system that can carry consistency throughout all its merchandise for the primary time.
Apple could swap all OS model numbers to years
Beginning with releases anticipated round September 2025, Apple will rebrand its software program names utilizing “26” designations — iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26 and visionOS 26 — in keeping with sources accustomed to the plans who requested anonymity, in keeping with Bloomberg. So the much-anticipated new iOS 19 would possibly come out as iOS 26.
Apple declined to touch upon the rumored plans.
Why Apple will make the swap
The present naming system has created confusion amongst customers and builders, with completely different working techniques utilizing disparate model numbers that don’t align. For instance, the newest releases embody iOS 18, watchOS 12, macOS 15, and visionOS 2 — numbers that mirror when every platform first launched fairly than their present era.
By adopting year-based naming, Apple goals to create a extra cohesive model expertise that makes it simpler for customers to grasp which software program variations work collectively throughout their units. The corporate can also be planning contemporary person interfaces throughout all platforms beneath an inner mission known as “Solarium,” designed to make sure a extra constant expertise when switching between iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV and Imaginative and prescient Professional.
Following business precedents
Apple’s method mirrors methods utilized by different main know-how firms, Bloomberg mentioned. Samsung switched to year-based naming for its Galaxy S smartphone line in 2020, leaping from the Galaxy S10 to Galaxy S20. Microsoft pioneered this method within the Nineties with Home windows 95, Home windows 98 and Home windows 2000.
Nonetheless, Apple plans to make use of the upcoming yr fairly than the present one — much like how automakers market subsequent yr’s automotive fashions. This implies software program launching in September 2025 will carry the 2026 designation, with subsequent releases anticipated to make use of “27” branding.
Main function updates coming
Past the naming adjustments, Apple is planning important performance enhancements. The iPad will obtain a extra Mac-like expertise to reinforce productiveness capabilities, whereas the corporate opens its AI fashions to third-party builders for the primary time.
New options embody reside translation for AirPods and Siri, eye-scrolling controls for Imaginative and prescient Professional, AI-powered well being options, clever battery administration, bidirectional Arabic-English keyboards and a digital calligraphy software for Apple Pencil customers.
Apple beforehand experimented with year-based naming for its iWork and iLife software program suites in 2007, although that system was ultimately discontinued.
