Apple's WWDC 2025: Expected AI, Design, and Health Updates

4 Things We Expect to See at WWDC 2025, and 2 We Don't

Apple's next Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) is set to kick off on June 9th, 2025, promising significant software announcements across its ecosystem. While the usual suspects like iOS 19, macOS 16, iPadOS 19, watchOS 12, visionOS 3, and tvOS 19 are expected, the focus this year is particularly on Apple's AI strategy and addressing past challenges.

Key Expectations for WWDC 2025:

A Fresh Design Language: Inspired by visionOS, Apple is anticipated to introduce a system-wide design overhaul across its operating systems. This revamp aims for greater consistency, featuring more rounded icons, transparent elements, smoother animations, and simplified navigation. The goal is to create a more cohesive and user-friendly experience across all Apple devices.
iPadOS Enhancements: iPadOS is expected to receive significant updates to its multitasking and windowing capabilities, bringing it closer to a macOS-like experience. This includes a potential macOS-style menu bar and an improved Stage Manager, especially when paired with the Magic Keyboard, to boost productivity on iPads.
Next-Gen Health Perks: Apple is reportedly planning a major overhaul of its Health app, codenamed "Project Mulberry." This update could include an AI-powered health coach that acts as a virtual doctor, offering personalized health suggestions and guidance. The company is leveraging its in-house physicians to train this AI, aiming to provide a more integrated and data-private health management solution.
Practical AI Features: Following some initial stumbles with its AI approach, Apple is expected to showcase more practical AI applications at WWDC 2025. This includes AI-driven battery management to optimize iPhone battery life and AI-assisted nutrition planning and real-time exercise feedback through the camera. While not entirely novel, Apple's integrated approach within the Health app promises greater convenience.

What Not to Expect:

The True Evolution of Siri: Despite efforts to overhaul Siri with generative AI capabilities, significant delays are reported. The integration of a truly advanced, LLM-driven Siri is likely still one to two years away. In the interim, Apple might explore partnerships, potentially with Google's Gemini, to enhance Siri's current functionality.
Fancy New Hardware: WWDC is primarily a software-focused event. While Apple's next-gen M5 silicon and the iPhone 17 series are on the horizon, they are expected to be launched later in the year, not at WWDC 2025. Similarly, rumors of smart glasses are unlikely to materialize into an announcement at this conference.

Apple's AI Strategy and Challenges:

Apple's AI approach, branded as "Apple Intelligence," has faced scrutiny due to perceived delays and reliance on third-party solutions like ChatGPT. The company aims to address these concerns by demonstrating more practical and integrated AI features at WWDC 2025. The focus will be on enhancing user experience through AI-powered tools that are seamlessly integrated into the existing Apple ecosystem.

Design Philosophy:

The anticipated design language shift is heavily influenced by the success of visionOS, which offers a spatial computing interface. Apple aims to bring elements of this intuitive and visually appealing design to its mainstream operating systems, focusing on ease of use and a consistent aesthetic across all platforms.

Health and Wellness Focus:

With increasing competition in the wearable and health tech market, Apple is doubling down on its health initiatives. The potential AI health coach and enhanced Health app features signal a commitment to leveraging technology for personal well-being, aiming to provide users with actionable insights and support for healthier lifestyles.

Conclusion:

WWDC 2025 is poised to be a pivotal event for Apple, particularly in showcasing its advancements in AI and refining its software offerings. While some anticipated features, like a fully revamped Siri, may be delayed, the focus on practical AI, design consistency, and enhanced health features suggests a strategic move towards a more integrated and intelligent user experience.