March 26, 2026, 7:33 am | Read time: 3 minutes
On June 8, Apple will kick off the WWDC26 developer conference with a “Special Event” primarily focused on software updates. However, new devices are often unveiled at the Apple headquarters during the presentation. TECHBOOK summarizes what we can expect this year.
Updates for All Systems
Last year, Apple streamlined all its operating systems to the same version number. Like in the automotive industry, this number represents the next year, which is why the systems introduced in 2025 are named iOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, etc.
For 2026, the company will announce the successors at WWDC26:
- iOS 27
- iPadOS 27
- macOS 27
- watchOS 27
- tvOS 27
- visionOS 27
A key focus is on artificial intelligence features. Apple states in the event announcement: “WWDC26 will showcase impressive updates for Apple platforms, including advancements in AI as well as exciting new software and developer tools.”
This includes a fundamentally redeveloped Siri based on Google Gemini, which has access to users’ personal context in messages, emails, and notes. The voice assistant will also be able to perform actions in apps independently.
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Possible Hardware Announcements
While WWDC is primarily aimed at developers who learn about Apple’s new software developments here, Apple occasionally uses the keynote to introduce new devices. At WWDC23, Vision Pro was unveiled along with a range of Macs. In previous years, Apple has consistently presented new hardware.
Recently, the company has shifted to announcing products via press release–most recently, the MacBook Neo, iPhone 17e, iPad Air with M4, and Studio Display XDR.
Currently, almost all Macs are up to date. The MacBook Air has been upgraded to the M5 chip, and the MacBook Pro is now available with M5 Pro and M5 Max. However, a few devices have yet to receive the M5 update, including:
- Mac Studio
- Mac mini
- iMac
- Mac Pro
Mac Studio, Mac mini, and iMac are all still limited to M4 options, with updated models yet to be released. A June unveiling is quite possible–especially since new MacBooks with M6 chips are expected by the end of 2026. It remains unclear what will happen with the Mac Pro, which is still only available with the M2 Ultra. Apple may discontinue the product in favor of the Mac Studio.
Additionally, Apple has several smart devices in the works that could be previewed at WWDC26. These include new Smart Glasses, AirPods Pro with integrated cameras, and an AI clip that responds to voice commands. A smart doorbell with Face ID and a tablet-like home hub are also in development.
Schedule and Agenda for WWDC 2026
WWDC26 will take place from June 8 to 12, 2026. The opening presentation starts on June 8 at 10 a.m. local time in California. In Central Europe, the broadcast begins at 7 p.m.
The presentation will be streamed online. Apple will provide the livestream on its website, via the Apple TV app, and on YouTube.
Immediately following the presentation, developers will receive the first test versions of the announced operating systems. Public beta versions will follow a month later. The final release is typically scheduled for the fall.