Apple is gearing up for its biggest iOS redesign in over a decade, and Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has laid out what users can expect from iOS 26 ahead of WWDC 2025. The update takes clear inspiration from visionOS, the operating system powering Apple Vision Pro, and introduces a sleek new “digital glass” aesthetic. According to Gurman, this design overhaul is the most significant change to iPhone software since iOS 7 launched back in 2013.
The core visual language of iOS 26 will focus heavily on light, depth, and transparency. The main interface element, which users will see and feel across the OS, is described as “digital glass.” This look will apply across app windows, toolbars, and even widgets. Instead of flattening the experience, Apple is leaning into a more layered and dynamic interface, starting with redesigned app icons that won’t be round but will align with the glass-like visuals. Toolbars and tab bars are also being reworked, with more interactive pop-out menus that aim to make navigation feel faster and more fluid.
Apple’s default apps are also getting their most noticeable updates in years. Safari is expected to debut a more transparent address bar that reflects the digital glass theme, while the Camera app will feature a more simplified interface that prioritizes usability. The Phone app will get a new optional layout that merges favorites, recent calls, and voicemails into a single, scrollable view. This is a clear step toward making the app more intuitive without taking away user control.
Home Screen widgets are being updated to match the new design language as well. While their functionality won’t change, their look will shift to align with the updated interface, creating a more unified visual experience across the system. This visionOS-style design is not exclusive to iOS. Similar changes are expected to arrive in iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, and tvOS 26, reinforcing Apple’s intent to bring visual consistency across its platforms.
In addition to visual updates, iOS 26 will introduce more productivity tools. For the first time, the Preview app from macOS will be available on iPhone and iPad, giving users better control over PDF annotation and file management. Messages may gain new features like polls and automatic translation, and Apple is reportedly working on a new Apple Games app, which will include tabs for Home, Arcade, Library, and more.
WWDC 2025 kicks off Monday, June 9, at 10 a.m. PT, where Apple will officially unveil iOS 26 along with updates to all its operating systems. The first developer beta is expected shortly after the keynote, with a public release likely coming in September alongside the iPhone 17 lineup.
(via Bloomberg)
