WWDC might not provide the macOS enchantment I hope for. Here’s the reason.

WWDC might not provide the macOS enchantment I hope for. Here’s the reason.

      Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) is just two months away, and I'm eagerly anticipating what might be introduced for the Mac during Apple's major summer event. However, every time I think about WWDC 2025, I'm left with one prevailing thought: that Apple Intelligence will overshadow everything else at the event. To be honest, I don't see how Apple could approach it differently. As I've previously noted, this year's WWDC is critical for Apple Intelligence. Apple must not only ensure that its artificial intelligence (AI) platform keeps pace with competitors like ChatGPT and Google Gemini, but it also needs to present a service that outperforms them in certain aspects. It must persuade the public that Apple Intelligence is a viable option for their AI requirements. If Apple manages this successfully, then Apple Intelligence could finally fulfill its intended purpose, featuring an upgraded Siri with remarkable contextual understanding and valuable enhancements to essential Mac applications that assist users in their daily lives. Nonetheless, while I genuinely hope for a much-needed overhaul of Apple Intelligence, I don't want macOS 16 and iOS 19 to suffer as a consequence. After all, these are integral components of the devices that Apple fans adore. Without significant improvements in these areas, we would all be at a disadvantage.

      The concern is that the heavy emphasis on AI could lead to neglect in other areas. We've seen similar situations in the past. For instance, when the Vision Pro headset debuted, Apple's updates for macOS, iOS, and other systems were quite minimal. Reports indicated that Apple redirected developers from these platforms to focus on visionOS before WWDC. I suspect that a similar strategy might unfold this year, given the significance of Apple Intelligence and the effort required to bring it up to standard.

      This is unfortunate, as I believe everyday users will prioritize new features in the operating systems they use regularly over advancements in AI. Reports suggest that Apple Intelligence hasn't gained the traction Apple anticipated, and it's likely still a niche product compared to the operating systems that people interact with on a daily basis. While enhancements to macOS and iOS could positively impact users, Apple's substantial commitment to AI means they will likely prioritize Apple Intelligence this summer.

      Historically, WWDC has provided an opportunity for Apple to showcase the "magic moments" that have contributed to its reputation. Universal Control in 2021 is a prime example, leaving many, including myself, thoroughly impressed. Features like Continuity Camera, which I regularly use, and iPhone Mirroring, introduced last year, are all practical additions that, although not as flashy as Apple Intelligence, are vital to the Apple experience. Without standout moments like these, Apple's operating system updates risk becoming sparse and lackluster by June 2025.

      Rumors suggest that macOS 16 may include a comprehensive redesign featuring more glass-like visuals and rounded buttons inspired by visionOS. The last significant visual update for the Mac occurred with macOS Big Sur in 2020, so a fresh aesthetic could be timely.

      This approach could effectively revitalize the operating system without necessitating an extensive array of new features. A refreshed look for macOS could provide a sense of renewal without drastically altering its functionality.

      However, the lingering question is whether this will constitute a significant update or merely a superficial facelift to mask a lack of updates elsewhere. With so much effort needed to bring Apple Intelligence up to speed, I'm worried that the latter scenario is more likely. I hope to be proven wrong by June 2025.

      Alex Blake has been writing for Digital Trends since 2019, primarily focusing on Mac computers.

      Apple’s top M4 Macs are currently heavily discounted – here’s why now is an excellent time to buy.

      A few years back, I purchased a refurbished MacBook Pro with the M1 Pro chip from Apple. This turned out to be one of my best decisions. The MacBook Pro was in excellent condition and came at a significant discount, and it remains in great working order today. Now, Apple is offering discounts again, allowing you to save money on two of the best Macs available. These aren’t just negligible reductions – we’re seeing serious discounts of around 15%, which is a considerable saving on devices that can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

      Apple's Mail app for macOS is set to receive a long-overdue AI update. Recently, Apple introduced significant upgrades to the Mail app, adding intelligent categories to declutter inboxes and simplify the discovery of relevant content. However, this improvement was limited to the mobile platform and did not make its way to Macs. That's about to change, as Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports in the latest edition of his PowerOn newsletter that Mail categories will soon be available on the desktop version starting in April.

      The ChatGPT app is transforming my Mac right before my eyes. Apple is fully committed to AI for the Mac, branded as Apple Intelligence, which is just beginning to take shape. Meanwhile, OpenAI launched its own ChatGPT app in 2024,

WWDC might not provide the macOS enchantment I hope for. Here’s the reason. WWDC might not provide the macOS enchantment I hope for. Here’s the reason. WWDC might not provide the macOS enchantment I hope for. Here’s the reason. WWDC might not provide the macOS enchantment I hope for. Here’s the reason. WWDC might not provide the macOS enchantment I hope for. Here’s the reason. WWDC might not provide the macOS enchantment I hope for. Here’s the reason. WWDC might not provide the macOS enchantment I hope for. Here’s the reason.

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WWDC might not provide the macOS enchantment I hope for. Here’s the reason.

Apple's WWDC event is likely to focus heavily on Apple Intelligence, but I'm concerned that this could lead to macOS lacking appealing new features.