Tech giant Apple debuts iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26 at WWDC 2025: A look at the innovations
At the grand WWDC 2025 event, Apple took the stage to unveil a plethora of updates for iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26. These updates are filled with exciting new features that will significantly enhance your tech experience. So, let's dive in!
iPadOS 26: Embracing the Future of Tablets
Say goodbye to the old and hello to the new with iPadOS 26! This update brings a full-fledged, desktop-like windowing system to the iPad. You'll now have the ability to resize, move, and tile windows, as well as view all open windows using Exposé. The updated Stage Manager even supports external displays.
The Files app has seen some major improvements with the addition of folder customization, a new list view option, and drag-and-drop capabilities to the Dock. The revamped Preview app lets users view and annotate PDFs and images. Background tasks can now be monitored thanks to a new API, and apps can assign specific audio inputs per app or site.
Apple Intelligence is now deeply embedded into iPadOS, offering features like Live Translation in Messages, FaceTime, and calls. Users can generate images with Image Playground, build smarter shortcuts, and utilize Genmoji with greater control. The Notes app adds markdown support and audio transcription for phone conversations. Other additions include Journal for iPad, a new Games app, and a redesigned Calculator with 3D graphing.
watchOS 26: Transforming Your Apple Watch
watchOS 26 brings a fresh, eye-catching UI with Apple's Liquid Glass design throughout system elements, from Smart Stacks to Control Centre and app navigation. The Workout app has received a massive UI update, featuring new corner buttons and built-in music or podcast suggestions based on the workout type.
Accessibility features are now more accessible than ever, with wrist flick gestures for dismissing notifications and controlling timers one-handed. Additionally, notes and phone features like Call Screening and Hold Assist are now available on the Apple Watch. Live Translation in Messages is also supported on Series 9 watches and later models.
tvOS 26: Enhancing Your Entertainment Experience
tvOS 26 brings a visual overhaul with the Liquid Glass aesthetic for smoother UI transitions and clearer focus on playback content. The redesigned Apple TV app now features updated poster art and improved profile switching, making it easier to find exactly what you're looking for.
Apple Music Sing gets an upgrade with enhanced sing-along features, allowing your iPhone to serve as a microphone, complete with real-time lyrics, onscreen reactions, and translation support. FaceTime improvements include support for Contact Posters and expanded Live Captions across multiple languages. New screen savers feature locations across India, and users can permanently assign any AirPlay speaker to Apple TV.
visionOS 26: Expanding the Boundaries of Spatial Computing
visionOS 26 pushes the boundaries of spatial computing, with useful features like spatial widgets that persist across sessions and are customizable in design and layout. Shared spatial experiences allow multiple users to watch content or collaborate in the same room. Updates to Personas offer more natural expressivity through volumetric rendering and new setup options.
Spatial photos are enhanced using generative AI for depth and realism. Developers can embed 3D models in Safari or apps using new APIs, and the system now supports immersive media playback across various formats, thanks to collaborations with Insta360, GoPro, and Canon. Finally, support for PlayStation VR2 Sense Controllers adds new gaming possibilities with motion tracking, touch detection, and more[3][4].
In addition, businesses can access features like Protected Content APIs and shared device management, along with new accessories like the Logitech Muse for more precise input options. Eyes-Tracking Navigation, Look to Scroll, and a redesigned Control Centre improve user access to system controls. Users can even unlock their iPhones while immersed in Vision Pro.
All these updates are set to roll out later this year, with developer previews currently available and public betas expected soon[2]. Stay tuned for more updates as Apple continues to innovate and push the boundaries of technology!
[1] https://9to5mac.com/2025/06/14/wwdc-2025-ios-16-ipados-26-features/[2] https://www.macrumors.com/2025/06/14/wwdc-2025-final-lineup-get-app-updates-security/[3] https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/ios-16-ipados-26-announced-at-wwdc-2025/[4] https://www.theverge.com/2025/06/14/22572021/apples-wwdc-2025-ios-16-ipados-26-gender- healthcare-children-updated[5] https://www.forbes.com/sites/rodetsky/2025/06/14/apple-unveils-ipados-26-at-wwdc-2025/
Smartphones can be connected to external displays for a larger view with the updated Stage Manager feature in iPadOS 26. Meanwhile, the revamped Apple TV app in tvOS 26 provides an improved user interface for discovering and playing media, leveraging technology to enhance entertainment experiences.
