WWDC 2026: All our expectations for Apple's June event

      Apple has finally announced the dates for its annual developer conference, WWDC 2026—a key event that sets the stage for new versions of iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, which will be accessible to everyone in September 2026.

      In addition to the usual operating system updates, this event will also showcase Apple’s progress in AI. Unlike last year, the company might introduce some new and significant hardware, making the event even more intriguing.

      When will Apple hold WWDC 2026?

      Apple

      WWDC 2026 is scheduled to take place from June 8 to June 12, 2026, as confirmed by Apple. The keynote on June 8 at 10 AM PT will be the highlight of the conference.

      We anticipate that the keynote will start with remarks from Tim Cook, followed by Apple’s Senior Vice President of Software Engineering, Craig Federighi, and other executives involved in the latest developments.

      On the same day, Apple will conduct the Platforms State of the Union and in-person events with developers and students. Technical sessions, interactive lab sessions, and one-on-one developer appointments will be held until June 12, 2026.

      Siri 2.0: Enhancing Apple Intelligence

      Apple

      Apple has been vocal about its intentions to provide a more intelligent AI experience over the past couple of years, although execution has been lacking. However, WWDC 2026 could mark a turning point.

      A key highlight of the event might be “Campos,” the fully redesigned version of Siri (often referred to as Siri 2.0). The upgraded assistant is expected to deliver a true chatbot experience with deep integration into the new operating systems (iOS 27 and more).

      The new Siri is anticipated to feature capabilities such as web searching, image generation, information summarization, reading uploaded files, and managing tasks using your personal data stored on the device.

      Additionally, there’s excitement surrounding the anticipated on-screen awareness feature, which will enable Siri to understand what’s currently displayed on your screen and offer relevant suggestions or responses.

      The revised Siri will be built on a custom language model based on Google’s Gemini—enhanced by Google’s backend technology but tailored by Apple. Rumors suggest it will also undergo a visual redesign, possibly featuring an animated character with a personality reminiscent of “Clippy.”

      In addition to the new Siri, there are expectations for Core AI, a significant upgrade to Core ML that will enhance developer tools for running large language and diffusion models directly on devices.

      iOS 27: The “Snow Leopard” Update

      Nirave Gondhia / Digital Trends

      If iOS 26 is perceived as one of Apple’s most significant updates in years, then iOS 27 is likely a more subdued follow-up. The internal directive for Apple’s engineers focuses on refining the operating system, eliminating bugs, rewriting old code, and streamlining various features. This could lead to notable battery life improvements, especially on older iPhone models.

      Although the Liquid Glass design language remains, iOS 27 will reportedly include a customization slider for adjusting the intensity of the transparent glass effect, a feature that was shelved during the iOS 26 cycle.

      Moreover, iOS 27 is designed to prepare Apple’s operating system for the anticipated iPhone Fold. It may introduce side-by-side multitasking for the first time, redesign first-party app layouts for the larger inner display, and improve touch interactions throughout the system.

      In terms of apps, there are indications of a postponed Calendar redesign with AI integration and improved Photo collections, based on leaked code. An important update could be support for satellite-based 5G connectivity, potentially debuting with the iPhone 18 Pro, allowing users to navigate with Apple Maps and share photos/videos via satellite.

      In terms of compatibility, the iPhone 11 series appears to be approaching the end of its support lifecycle, having already received six years of updates.

      Updates for Other Platforms: iPadOS, macOS, tvOS, and visionOS 27

      Apple

      Similar to iOS 27, all other software platforms will focus on refinement, stability, and deeper Siri integration.

      For instance, iPadOS 27 is set to include Siri 2.0, the customizable Liquid Glass intensity slider, and likely benefit from new app layout APIs designed for the iPhone Fold. However, iPadOS 27 may have fewer features compared to other updates.

      In contrast, macOS 27 has more significant changes in store. This release may mark the end of Intel support for Macs, as recent rumors indicate that macOS 27 will function solely on Apple Silicon (M1 or newer), completing a transition that began in 2020. It will also be the last version to support Rosetta 2, ensuring Intel-based apps aren't abruptly discontinued.

      Beyond general improvements, macOS will receive the Snow Leopard treatment, along with enhancements to apps. Notably, there are updates regarding touch optimization for the