Charles Esther
Apple has officially announced that iOS 26 will launch later this year.
This change comes alongside the renaming of other Apple operating systems to align with the same numerical year.
The decision reflects a shift from their previous versioning system, which many found confusing.
The new naming convention aims to unify all Apple OS versions under one consistent year-based number.
Confusion in Apple’s Previous Operating System Versioning
Apple’s current operating systems, such as iOS 18, watchOS 12, and macOS 15, have different version numbers.
These varying numbers often make it hard to tell which system is the newest or how they relate to each other.
The problem exists because these operating systems originally launched in different years and increased their versions independently.
This disconnect affects users, developers, and industry stakeholders alike.
Aligning OS Names With the Upcoming Year
Going forward, Apple will name all its operating systems with the same number, corresponding to the upcoming year.
For example, iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26 will all share the “26” moniker.
This approach resembles how car manufacturers name their models after the coming year instead of the current one.
By doing this, Apple avoids the OS sounding outdated during most of its product lifecycle.
The Timing Behind Naming It iOS 26
iOS 26 will roll out in the fall of 2025, which leaves just a few months in the calendar year.
Apple prefers to name the operating system for the year it will mainly be in use, 2026, rather than 2025.
This means devices like the iPhone 17, launching in 2025, will come preloaded with iOS 26.
This strategy better reflects the product’s relevance across its full lifespan.
Major UI Overhaul: The Liquid Glass Design
The jump from iOS 19 straight to iOS 26 signals Apple sees this as a generational leap.
A key part of this leap is the introduction of the new “Liquid Glass” design language.
Liquid Glass features translucent layers, mimicking light refraction to create a fluid and dynamic user interface.
This design enhances depth, movement, and visual appeal across apps and system controls.
Visual Changes and New Features in iOS 26
Liquid Glass affects small UI elements like buttons, switches, and sliders to create a more immersive experience.
The updated design also changes toolbars and navigation menus, optimized for screens with rounded corners.
New Lock Screen and Home Screen themes include a Clear Look style with transparent app icons and text.
Because this design unifies iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, Apple’s naming alignment emphasizes the shared interface.
Aligning OS Versions With Apple’s Fiscal Year
Another reason for the name change is Apple’s fiscal calendar, which runs from late September to September the next year.
Apple releases new iPhones and software around the fiscal year’s start.
Naming the OS after the upcoming fiscal year simplifies financial reporting and investor communications.
This alignment helps Apple clearly connect software versions with their economic impact.
What This Means for Apple Users and Developers
Users will now find it easier to identify the latest OS versions across devices.
Developers benefit from clearer versioning when designing apps for multiple Apple platforms.
The consistent naming reduces confusion in software updates and compatibility discussions.
It also signals a more cohesive Apple ecosystem experience going forward.
Conclusion: A Unified and Forward-Looking Apple Ecosystem
Apple’s decision to rename its operating systems to iOS 26 and siblings represents more than just a number change.
It marks a new chapter with a major UI redesign and clearer versioning logic.
By aligning OS names with the upcoming year and fiscal calendar, Apple streamlines communication internally and externally.
Users and developers alike can expect a more unified and modern Apple software environment starting this fall.
