Apple's WWDC Surprise: Unified OS Version Numbers Starting Fall 2026

Apple Unveils New OS Naming Convention at WWDC2025 Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025 brought a surprise announcement: a complete overhaul of its operating system naming convention. The change, effective Fall 2026, will see all Apple platforms (iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS) adopt a unified version number. This means iOS 18 will be followed by iOS 26, and similarly for other systems. The video shows the announcement on the big screen at WWDC, confirming the news. "Our releases for the fall that will power us through the coming year, 2026, will be version 26." said an Apple representative in the presentation captured on video. The shift to a single-year version number simplifies the identification of software updates across Apple's ecosystem. This update also includes a new design and what Apple calls "intelligent experiences." The change marks a significant departure from Apple's previous naming practices and promises a more streamlined user experience. The announcement was met with excitement and speculation within the tech community.