Apple is renaming its operating system. The change will affect all devices. The company’s upcoming operating systems will be identified by year instead of version number. So the current version of iOS 18 will become “iOS 26” and other updates will be reflected as follows: iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26 and visionOS 26. The change is an expression of Apple’s desire to be consistent with the names of its operating systems. Each device has a different operating system such as iOS 18, macOS 15 and watchOS 12 as the respective versions have been released at different times. Apple is expected to make the announcement at its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) on June 9.
According to Bloomberg, the company will introduce a new layout across its operating systems to be more universal for users who own multiple Apple devices. The layout will include watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS.
The new naming system will be rolled out next year, even though the operating system will be released in September. Apple is also expected to announce the opening of its AI models to third-party developers who can use the company’s models. Among the innovations being rumored are AirPods that can translate in real time in collaboration with Vision Pro, giving users the ability to control the device by moving their eyes. With Apple Intelligence, they could have additional health options and battery settings that are powered by AI.
