Apple OS Naming Change: Report Details Potential Shift

Apple to Adopt Year-Based Naming System for Operating Systems

According to a recent report from Bloomberg, Apple is planning a significant shift in its operating system naming convention.

Future operating system releases will be designated by the year of their release. This means the version following the current iOS 18 will be labeled iOS 26, bypassing traditional sequential numbering like iOS 19.

Rationale Behind the Change

This alteration is intended to create a more streamlined and logical branding strategy across all Apple products. The goal is to reduce confusion for users.

The new naming scheme will extend beyond iOS. iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS are all expected to follow suit, becoming iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26 respectively.

Announcement Timeline

These changes are anticipated to be formally unveiled at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), scheduled for June 9th.

Expected Announcements at WWDC

This year’s WWDC is already shaping up to be a major event with substantial announcements expected.

Alongside the operating system rebranding, Apple is reportedly preparing to introduce redesigned user interfaces. These new interfaces will complement the year-based naming system.

Further updates are also expected for a range of Apple products and services.

• AirPods: New features are anticipated.
• Siri: Updates to the voice assistant are planned.
• Vision Pro: Enhancements for the headset are in development.
• AI Features: Numerous new artificial intelligence capabilities are expected to be showcased.

The integration of advanced AI functionalities is a key focus for Apple this year.