Apple just dropped a bombshell at WWDC. They’re overhauling their operating systems with a fresh design and image. But that’s not all – they’re also changing how they number their software versions. Starting in 2026, Apple is ditching the current version numbers like macOS 15 and iOS 18. Instead, they’re adopting a yearly numbering system.
New Naming System
From now on, Apple’s operating systems will be named after the year they’re released. So, expect to see iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, WatchOS 26, TVOS 26, and VisionOS 26. This change aims to simplify things for users, who often struggle to keep track of the latest updates across multiple operating systems.
Apple’s future Mac operating systems will still have their California-inspired themes, like Tahoe (the next macOS version) and the current Sequoia. The change is long overdue, as the current system was becoming increasingly complicated.
What’s Behind the Change?
With the introduction of the Vision Pro headset, Apple now has six families of operating systems, each with its own unique numbering scheme. However, iPhones will keep their current numbering system. This move isn’t unique to Apple, as other brands like Samsung have already adopted similar naming conventions. For example, Samsung switched to a yearly naming system for their Galaxy S phones after the Galaxy S10.
It’s worth noting that this change only applies to Apple’s operating systems, not their devices. So, don’t expect to see a new iPhone naming system just yet. The move is likely an attempt to streamline Apple’s software offerings and make it easier for users to understand what’s new and what’s next.