Apple might make a major change to the naming convention for all its operating systems this year, switching all OS version numbers to years, according to a new report. The switch, which Apple reportedly will roll out at WWDC25 on June 9, would bring consistency across all its operating systems for the first time.
Apple might switch all OS version numbers to years
Starting with releases expected around September 2025, Apple will rebrand its software names using “26” designations — iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26 and visionOS 26 — according to sources familiar with the plans who requested anonymity, according to Bloomberg. If that proves true, the much-anticipated new iOS 19 would come out as iOS 26.
Apple declined to comment on the rumored plans.
Why Apple will make the switch
Apple’s current naming system creates confusion among users and developers, with different operating systems using disparate version numbers that don’t align. For example, the most recent releases include iOS 18, watchOS 12, macOS 15 and visionOS 2 — numbers that reflect when each platform first launched rather than their current generation.
By adopting year-based naming, Apple aims to create a more cohesive brand experience that makes it easier for users to understand which software versions work together across their devices. The company is also planning fresh user interfaces across all platforms under an internal project called “Solarium,” designed to ensure a more consistent experience when switching between iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV and Vision Pro.
Following industry precedents
Apple’s approach mirrors strategies used by other major technology companies, Bloomberg noted. Samsung switched to year-based naming for its Galaxy S smartphone line in 2020, jumping from the Galaxy S10 to Galaxy S20. Microsoft pioneered this approach in the 1990s with Windows 95, Windows 98 and Windows 2000.
However, Apple plans to use the upcoming year rather than the current one — similar to how automakers market next year’s car models. This means software launching in September 2025 will carry the 2026 designation, with subsequent releases expected to use “27” branding.
Major feature updates coming
Beyond the naming changes, Apple is planning significant functionality improvements. The iPad will receive Mac-like tweaks to enhance productivity capabilities, while the company opens its AI models to third-party developers for the first time.
New features include live translation for AirPods and Siri, eye-scrolling controls for the Vision Pro headset, AI-powered health features, intelligent battery management, bidirectional Arabic-English keyboards and a digital calligraphy tool for Apple Pencil users.
Apple previously experimented with year-based naming for its iWork and iLife software suites in 2007, but eventually discontinued that system.
