Apple may be changing the way it names its operating systems. A new report from Bloomberg says Apple could switch to a naming style that matches the year the software comes out, just like how car companies name their models.
If this is true, iOS 19 will likely be called iOS 26 when it launches this fall. Apple is expected to confirm this at its big WWDC event on June 9.
Not Just iPhones—All Apple Devices
This change won’t only affect the iPhone. Apple could rename all its systems the same way. That means:
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iPadOS will become iPadOS 26
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macOS will become macOS 26
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watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS would follow suit
This change would make everything simpler and clearer for users and developers. Right now, the version numbers don’t always make sense to people. Matching them with the year could fix that.
A Big Redesign Is Also Coming
As we all know, Apple barely makes major visual overhauls when it comes to its operating systems. For some years now, Apple’s iOS, macOS and iPadOS have all had few visual changes. As long as iOS 19 is concerned, this story is about to change, according to reports.
Reports also say Apple is planning a major visual update to all its operating systems. This update is called “Solarium” inside the company. It’s said to affect iOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS, and even visionOS.
Even though it is coming from a reliable source, it still remains a rumor. However, if it turns out to be true, it may be the biggest redesign since iOS 7, which came out in 2013.
New Features Expected
Along with the new look, iOS may get:
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External display support (connect your iPhone to a monitor)
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A completely redesigned Camera app
Also, iPadOS 26 could get a new menu bar like the one in macOS. This would make iPads feel more like laptops and improve multitasking.
