Apple to Integrate visionOS Design Principles into iOS 26 for a Cohesive Cross-Platform Experience

Apple is set to introduce a significant visual overhaul across its platforms—iOS 26, macOS 26, tvOS 26, and watchOS 26—taking design inspiration from visionOS, the operating system used for the Vision Pro headset. Internally known as ‘Solarium’, the iOS 26 redesign emphasizes translucency, floating interface elements, and a glass-like aesthetic. Inspired by the AR/VR environment of visionOS, new UI elements aim to appear lighter and more immersive with subtle depth effects, rounded edges, and a greater use of shadowing.

Key features include translucent menus, pill-shaped navigation bars, rounded icons, and shadow effects that mimic physical lighting interactions. The changes may even affect app icon shapes, potentially shifting from the iconic squircle to round forms. The new look also prioritizes simplicity and usability, streamlining navigation and emphasizing clearer typography.

Apple intends to align its operating systems with a more unified visual language, offering developers the tools to adopt the new design ethos. The revamped interface will be officially revealed at WWDC 2025 on June 9, with public beta releases expected in July and general availability in September.