AppleVis Extra 108: Recapping WWDC 2025 and Exploring OS 26 & Apple Intelligence

In this episode of the AppleVis Extra podcast, host David Nason is joined by Thomas Domville, Tyler Stephen, and newcomer Levi Gobin to unpack everything announced at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). The team dives deep into the new features coming to iOS, watchOS, macOS, and iPadOS, sharing their first impressions and early experiences with the latest developer betas.

Highlights from the Episode:

1. Unified OS Versions:

• Apple aligns iOS, watchOS, and macOS under version 26, marking a more cohesive update cycle across platforms. The panel discusses the reasoning behind this and what it might mean for users and developers.

2. iOS 26 Key Features:

• A bold new “liquid glass” aesthetic refreshes the visual design.
• Versioning now reflects the year, simplifying future updates.
• Groundbreaking features like Hold Assist and on-device live translation redefine accessibility and daily use.
• Shortcuts receive a major boost from Apple Intelligence, making automations more powerful and customizable.

3. Beta Testing Stories & Insights:

• Thomas recounts a rocky iOS 26 beta install on the iPhone 15 Pro and the steps it took to recover.
• The team examines current beta performance—discussing AI-driven screenshot analysis, enhanced screen calling, and improved battery status alerts.

4. watchOS 26 Updates:

• Smart Stack and Workout Buddy add new layers of personalization to workouts.
• Lively debate ensues on the practicality of motivational workout prompts.

5. macOS 26 "Tahoe":

• Spotlight becomes smarter with Quick Key integration.
• More control for users through revamped menu bar and control center customization.
• Discussion around Rosetta’s eventual phase-out and what it means for app compatibility.
• Subtle but meaningful accessibility improvements, including customizable toolbars via the Actions menu.

6. iPadOS 26 Enhancements:

• Continues its convergence with macOS, introducing menu customizations and better file handling.
• A new Phone app brings calling functionality to non-iPhone devices.

7. VoiceOver Improvements:

• Notable accessibility gains, including enhanced Braille input and toolbar customization for VoiceOver users.

8. Looking Ahead:

• The team reflects on the implications of Apple’s AI roadmap and the growing synergy across platforms.
• They offer thoughts on what this year’s updates signal about Apple’s broader strategy moving forward.

Transcript

Disclaimer: This transcript was generated by AI Note Taker – VoicePen, an AI-powered transcription app. It is not edited or formatted, and it may not accurately capture the speakers’ names, voices, or content.

Dave: Hello there and welcome to another episode of the Apple Viz Extra podcast. My name is David Mason and really exciting time of year. It is WWDC. We had all of the announcements on Monday and we are gathered to chat through them. what Apple told…