Apple is reportedly set to change the naming convention for its operating systems, transitioning from sequential numbers to year-based naming. This anticipated modification will commence with the next version of its operating systems, starting with iOS 26, macOS 26, and others in 2025. The newly aligned names reflect the year following their release, akin to the approach taken by car model years.
The move aims to create more consistent branding across Apple’s diverse product lineup, addressing potential confusion for both customers and developers. This year-based naming strategy ensures better coherence across platforms such as iPadOS, watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS.
Apple plans to unveil these changes at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) on June 9th. Alongside the renaming announcement, Apple is expected to introduce new user interfaces, branded as Solarium, designed to enhance user experience across devices. Additional features will include a more Mac-like experience for iPad users and new capabilities for third-party developers to access Apple’s AI models.
By aligning operating systems with specific years, Apple not only simplifies its naming process but also enhances the overarching product strategy, thereby streamlining interactions for all end-users.

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Apple is changing its operating system naming convention from sequential numbers to year-based naming, starting with iOS 26, macOS 26, and other OS versions in 2025. The new naming reflects the year following release, similar to car model years, aiming to create consistent branding across Apple's product lineup. The announcement is expected at WWDC on June 9th, alongside new Solarium user interfaces and enhanced iPad experiences.

Apple to Introduce Year-Based Naming for Operating Systems