Apple plans software overhaul for iPhone, iPod and Mac to give interface a new-gen look

Apple is preparing to roll out one of the most significant software redesigns in its history, revamping the interfaces of the iPhone, iPad, and Mac to create a more uniform experience across its devices.

The update, expected later this year, will introduce a new look for icons, menus, apps, windows, and system buttons, according to sources familiar with the project. The redesign, inspired in part by Apple’s Vision Pro software, aims to simplify navigation and control across its platforms.

Apple hopes the changes will reignite consumer interest following a slowdown in sales, particularly for the iPhone, which saw an unexpected decline during the most recent holiday season, Bloomberg reported.

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The software updates– iOS 19 and iPadOS 19, code-named “Luck,” and macOS 16, known as “Cheer”– are expected to be Apple’s most significant interface overhaul since iOS 7 in 2013 and macOS Big Sur in 2020.

Set for unveiling at WWDC

Apple plans to showcase the updates at its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June, where they are expected to be a key highlight amid ongoing challenges in the company’s push into artificial intelligence (AI).

Last week, Apple indefinitely delayed AI-powered upgrades to Siri, confirming a media report that the enhancements were in jeopardy.

Aligning Apple’s ecosystem

The redesign aims to make macOS, iOS, and visionOS more visually consistent, reducing the stark differences in applications, icons, and window styles between devices. However, Apple is not merging its operating systems, a step some competitors have taken.

Instead, Apple believes keeping Mac and iPad software separate allows it to deliver more optimized experiences and encourages consumers to own multiple devices.

The Vision Pro, Apple’s mixed-reality headset, has struggled with sales since its debut last year, but elements of visionOS, such as circular app icons, simplified windows, and enhanced 3D depth—will influence the upcoming changes across other devices.

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However, the gesture-based interface of Vision Pro will not carry over to iOS and macOS, as it was designed specifically for an immersive, virtual environment.

High stakes for Apple’s user base

Apple, with more than two billion active devices worldwide, is known for its focus on simple, intuitive software design. However, past interface changes have not always been well received.

Even a minor redesign of the Photos app in 2023 drew complaints from users. With an entire operating system overhaul on the horizon, Apple is preparing for potential backlash.

As Apple navigates shifting consumer trends and intensifying competition in AI, the success of its biggest software transformation in over a decade could be critical in shaping the company’s next phase.