Rumor mill: Apple is undertaking one of the most significant software overhauls in its history, aiming to revamp the user interface across iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices. This ambitious update, set for release later this year, will fundamentally transform the look and feel of Apple’s operating systems, enhancing consistency and the user experience.
The updates are part of iOS 19 and iPadOS 19, codenamed “Luck,” and macOS 16, dubbed “Cheer,” according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. He cited sources who requested anonymity since the project has yet to be officially announced. These major upgrades will introduce a new design language while simplifying navigation and controls.
Apple’s push for consistency across platforms aims to create a seamless user experience when switching between devices. Currently, applications, icons, and window styles vary significantly across macOS, iOS, and visionOS, leading to a disjointed experience.
For example, visionOS features circular app icons, a simplified window management system, and an immersive interface with 3D depth and shadows. While some of these elements won’t directly translate to the 2D environments of iOS and macOS, they have influenced Apple’s design direction, Gurman noted. Despite lower-than-expected Vision Pro sales, its software has provided valuable insights into crafting more engaging interfaces.
Apple is stopping short of merging its operating systems – a strategy adopted by other tech giants. Instead, the company believes that keeping them separate allows for better device-specific design while encouraging consumers to buy multiple Apple products.
The software overhaul has become a major focus for Apple’s engineering and design teams. It is led by Alan Dye, a veteran Apple executive with a background in fashion and design. Dye, who played a key role in developing the Apple Watch’s operating system and iOS 7, now oversees a team of over 300 software designers. His influence has grown since the departure of legendary design chief Jony Ive in 2019.
The stakes are high for Apple as it seeks to reignite demand following a period of sluggish growth. Despite strong first-quarter 2025 results driven by services and Apple Intelligence, iPhone sales – Apple’s largest revenue source – unexpectedly declined during the 2024 holiday season.
The upcoming software updates are expected to be a centerpiece of Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference in June.
