Apple is getting ready to change how your iPhone, iPad, Mac, and other devices look. At its WWDC event on June 9, the company will show off a new design called Solarium. This update makes Apple’s software look fresher and more similar across all devices, borrowing ideas from the Vision Pro headset.
What the New Design Looks Like
See-Through Menus and Rounded Icons
The Solarium design uses lots of glass-like effects. Menus and buttons might look slightly see-through, like frosted glass. App icons will get rounder edges, and some parts of the screen might float or have soft shadows. Think of it like your apps are sitting on a shiny, modern shelf.
Same Look on All Devices
Apple wants your iPhone, Mac, Apple Watch, and Apple TV to feel like they belong together. For example, the menu bar on a Mac could look like the one on an iPad when you attach a keyboard. Even the TV and watch interfaces will get updates to match this style.
Why People Are Excited (and Worried)
Better for Eyes? Maybe Not
While the design looks cool, some worry it might be hard to read in bright light. Apple says it’s adding bigger text options and better color settings to help. But too much see-through effect could make words blend into the background.
App Makers Are Stressed
Developers who make apps for iPhones and Macs might have to redo their designs to fit Solarium. One developer joked, “It’s like Apple changed the rules halfway through the game.” Apps that don’t update could look outdated.
When Can You Get the Update?
Test Versions Coming Soon
After WWDC, Apple will let developers try iOS 19 and macOS 16 in June. Regular users can test beta versions in July. The final update will likely arrive in September with the new iPhone 17.
Older Devices Still Work
Phones as old as the iPhone 14 and Macs with M1 chips should support Solarium. But some fancy features, like arranging multiple apps on one screen, might need newer devices.
What This Means for You
Apple wants your gadgets to stay fresh and communicate well with each other. Users of iPhone, Mac, and Apple Watch will appreciate the increased similarities between them. However, people often have different feelings about change.