watchOS 12 revelations at WWDC: Anticipated unveilings by Tim Cook this year
The Unexpected Switch in watchOS 12's Title
- From watchOS 12 to who knows... according to the whispers
- Rumors brewing about Apple changing its OS numbering system
- Get ready for watchOS 26 or whatever Apple chooses to call it
Apple's WWDC 2025 event is just around the corner, and while it traditionally caters to developers, we're keeping our fingers crossed for some exciting updates on iOS, MacOS, iPadOS, and, you guessed it, watchOS - the operating system that powers your trusty Apple Watch.
Although we won't be saying goodbye to our favorite Apple Watches any time soon (new models will have to wait until September), we're eagerly anticipating a plethora of new software features.
WatchOS often takes a backseat at Apple's developer events, but it still gets its fair share of attention each year. Here are three features we're hoping to see this time around.
First, a new twist on Apple Intelligence
Last year's reveal of Apple Intelligence garnered a somewhat lackluster response, with some critics questioning Apple's place in the AI-driven tech world alongside giants like Google and OpenAI.
June 9's show is the perfect opportunity for Apple to prove it can keep up with the Joneses of AI, and Bloomberg's Mark Gurman hints that Apple Intelligence might make a limited appearance on watchOS[2].
Although your current Apple Watch might not run the AI models directly, it could still take advantage of some Apple Intelligence-powered enhancements.
According to the latest scuttlebutt, Apple plans to incorporate three main features: Genmoji creation, notification summaries for widgets, and a refreshed Siri experience[2]. However, don't expect Siri's revamp to be on par with the transformative changes promised for the iPhone last year.
Second, a visual facelift inspired by Solarium
The watchOS UI hasn't seen a significant redesign since the watchOS 10 update, which brought widget stacks reminiscent of the best Garmin watches[3]. Rumor has it, we could be in for a broader visual overhaul that touches every platform, from watchOS to MacOS, iOS, and even tvOS[3].
Sources close to the matter suggest that Apple is developing a new design language internally known as 'Solarium,' with an emphasis on a brighter display and increased window transparency[3]. It's exciting to see how they'll integrate the Solarium design on watchOS, considering its usual black background.
Third, a fitness-focused feature
Apple always loves to spotlight a specific exercise in each OS update, and we're curious to see what they have in store for watchOS 26 or whatever it ends up being called. We'd love to see better support for strength workouts within Apple's ecosystem, but judging by the rumors, we suspect an outdoor-focused activity[4] may be on the horizon.
Rumors point to the possibility of an Apple Watch Ultra 3 being released this year, so it's likely that Apple will showcase the Ultra series' durability, GPS capabilities, and extended battery life[4]. A marathon, triathlon, or even rucking (walking with a weighted backpack) could be the feature that takes center stage on June 9.
*Sources:
- When is WWDC 2025, and what can you expect?
- Apple Watch update may bring 'Apple Intelligence' branding to health features
- Apple's next operating system updates to bring a design language called Solarium — Here's what it means for watchOS, iOS, macOS, tvOS, and more
- Apple's rumored 'Apple Watch Ultra 3' could be more rugged and long-lasting than ever before
In the anticipated Apple WWDC 2025 event, we may see watchOS 26 (or its yet-to-be-named successor) introducing a potential blend of advanced computing features and technology. Rumors suggest the incorporation of a revamped Siri, inspired design elements from 'Solarium,' and an fitness-focused feature, possibly catering to outdoor activities such as marathons, triathlons, or even rucking (walking with a weighted backpack).
