Apple’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference—WWDC25—has just wrapped up, offering a first glimpse at the future of Apple’s software platforms. While the event is primarily aimed at developers, it also gives the rest of us—whether we work in tech, manage teams, or simply rely on Apple devices every day—a valuable preview of what’s coming to iPhones, iPads, Macs, and more.

Here’s an overview of the key announcements and what they could mean for your work and digital environment.

iOS 26: A Refreshed Experience for iPhone Users

The next version of iOS introduces a new Liquid Glass design, bringing a more fluid, rounded, and customisable interface across the lock screen, home screen, and apps.

Key updates include:

Phone & Messages: A cleaner layout, smarter call screening, and hold assist features to help manage incoming calls more efficiently.

iMessage Enhancements: Group chat polls, typing indicators, and custom chat backgrounds—features that make team communication more flexible and engaging.

CarPlay Ultra: Adds widgets and live activities, improving the in-car experience for those frequently on the road.

New Games App: A central hub for Apple Arcade and other games—less relevant for work, but a sign of Apple’s growing ecosystem integration.

Apple Intelligence: Subtle Smarts, More to Come
Apple’s AI initiative, now called Apple Intelligence, is beginning to show up in useful ways—like suggesting polls in group chats or offering smarter Siri prompts. While it’s not yet delivering deep automation or cross-app workflows, Apple has hinted that more advanced features are on the way.

iPadOS 26: More Capable, More Familiar

iPadOS 26 builds on the iPad’s role as a versatile work device, with several thoughtful improvements:

New Windowing and Tiling System: Easier multitasking with better control over app layout and resizing.

Files and Preview Apps: Enhanced file management, full PDF editing, and a new Preview app bring the iPad closer to desktop-level functionality.

Background Tasks and Audio: Apps can now continue running in the background—ideal for video exports or multitasking with media.

Phone App on iPad: Yes, you can now make and receive calls directly from your iPad.

macOS Tahoe: A More Connected Desktop

The new macOS Tahoe brings the Liquid Glass design to the Mac, along with:

Phone App Integration: Full call handling, voicemail sync, and hold assist—bridging the gap between Mac and iPhone.

Spotlight and Safari Improvements: Better search, redesigned browser, and more responsive performance.

Live Activities and Accessibility Tools: Real-time updates and improved support for diverse user needs.

watchOS 26: Smarter on the Wrist

Apple Watch continues to evolve with features that support both wellbeing and communication:

Workout Buddy: A built-in coaching assistant for fitness routines.

Smart Stack Enhancements: Live translations, smart replies, and new gestures like wrist flick to dismiss calls or notifications.

New Notes App and Listening Controls: More tools for capturing ideas and managing audio on the go.

visionOS 26: Collaboration in Mixed Reality

For those exploring spatial computing, Vision Pro is gaining new capabilities:

Spatial Widgets: Customisable 3D widgets anchored in your virtual workspace.

Shared Experiences: Watch films, co-work, or play games with others in the same virtual environment.

Expanded Input Support: Including PlayStation VR2 controllers and 360° video playback.

Looking Ahead
Apple’s WWDC25 announcements reflect a steady evolution of its platforms—focused on smarter features, better integration, and more flexibility across devices. Whether you’re managing devices in a business setting, supporting a team, or simply planning your next upgrade, these updates are worth keeping an eye on.

The public release is expected in September, with beta versions already available for testing. As always, it’s wise to trial new software in a controlled environment before rolling it out more widely.