Apple is set to unveil iOS 19 at WWDC 2025, and rumors suggest this could be one of the most significant updates in years. From a potential rebranding to a Vision Pro-inspired redesign, along with new apps and AI-powered enhancements, this version promises to transform the iPhone experience.
Below, we break down all the possible new features coming with iOS 19.
A New Naming Scheme for the OS
According to Bloomberg, Apple may ditch its traditional numbering system in favor of a year-based naming convention, similar to the automotive industry. This means iOS 19 could be renamed iOS 26, with iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS following the same pattern.
A Radical Vision Pro-Inspired Redesign
iOS 19 is expected to introduce the biggest visual overhaul since iOS 7, drawing inspiration from Apple Vision Pro’s aesthetics. Rumored changes include:
- Translucent UI elements for navigation.
- Rounded app icons.
- A unified design extending to CarPlay for a more cohesive ecosystem.
Additionally, three apps are rumored to receive major updates:
- Phone: Merging favorites, recent calls, and voicemail into a single view.
- Safari: Featuring a transparent address bar.
- Camera: Visual refinements and possibly new functionalities.
A Dedicated Gaming App
Apple is reportedly working on a standalone gaming app that would combine Apple Arcade and the App Store’s game library. This hub would centralize achievements, leaderboards, and recommendations, strengthening Apple’s gaming push following its acquisition of studio RAC7.
An AI-Powered Health Coach
The Health app might introduce a virtual AI health coach, offering personalized lifestyle recommendations based on user data. It could also gain advanced nutrition tracking, allowing users to log carbs, caffeine intake, and more.
Smarter Battery Management
A new AI-driven battery optimization feature could analyze usage patterns to extend battery life. Other rumored additions include:
- A charging indicator on the lock screen.
- Reverse wireless charging on iPhone 17 Pro models, enabling users to charge accessories like AirPods or Apple Watch directly from their iPhone.
AI-Powered Message Translation
The Messages app may get real-time translation powered by Apple Intelligence, automatically converting texts upon receipt. Other possible upgrades:
- Group chat polls with AI-generated suggestions.
- Custom chat backgrounds, similar to WhatsApp and Instagram.
Preview App for iPhone and iPad
The Preview app, previously exclusive to macOS, could debut on iOS and iPadOS, allowing users to annotate and edit PDFs directly on their mobile devices.
Genmoji: Combine Emojis to Create New Ones
Genmoji might evolve with a feature that lets users merge existing emojis (e.g., a basketball dropping into a trash can) to craft custom expressions.
What About Siri?
Despite Apple’s 2024 promises of a more contextual and proactive Siri, rumors don’t highlight major upgrades in iOS 19. The focus seems to be on the visual redesign and Apple Intelligence features, with Siri improvements possibly delayed.
Final Thoughts: The Biggest iOS Update in Years?
With a fresh design, revamped apps, and AI-driven features, iOS 19 (or iOS 26) could mark a turning point for the iPhone. WWDC 2025 will confirm the details, but for now, the rumors paint an exciting future for Apple users.
By: Nestor Castillo, ForAllTechNews Director