Apple WWDC 2025 May Unveil iPhone 17 Air Alongside watchOS 26

Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025 is set to run from June 9 to June 13, with the main keynote event scheduled for June 9 at 10 a.m. PT (10:30 p.m. IST). As always, the keynote will be streamed live on Apple’s official website and YouTube channel, and is expected to deliver a host of announcements related to software updates and possibly even some early hardware teases. Major updates are expected across all of Apple’s operating systems, including iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS.

iPhone 17 Air May Make An Appearance

One of the most talked-about rumors leading into WWDC 2025 is a possible sneak peek at the iPhone 17 Air. Though the actual launch of the iPhone 17 series — including the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max — is scheduled for September, Apple may use WWDC to offer a first look at the new “Air” variant. This new model is expected to replace the existing “Plus” version, and it may mark a major turning point in iPhone design. Leaks suggest the iPhone 17 Air could be just 5.5mm thick, which would make it even slimmer than the iPhone 6’s 6.9mm body, and weigh just 146 grams.

To achieve this ultra-thin form factor, Apple is reportedly considering removing the USB-C port and other traditional connectors, making the iPhone 17 Air a completely wireless device. While this innovation could set new benchmarks in smartphone design, it may come with trade-offs. The device is rumored to include only a single 48MP rear camera, a 24MP front camera, a smaller 2,800mAh battery, and an aluminum frame, suggesting Apple may prioritize design over high-end specs in this variant.

watchOS 6 Set To Bring Major Upgrades

Another significant upgrade expected at WWDC 2025 comes in the form of watchOS 26. Apple Watch users may soon have access to third-party widgets within the Control Centre — a long-requested feature. The update will reportedly allow users to fully customize the Control Centre layout directly from their iPhone, making it easier to add, remove, or rearrange both Apple and third-party widgets. This shift promises a much more personalized user experience, going beyond the default options like Wi-Fi, Focus Mode, and Battery.

AirPods Will Get Smarter

AirPods are also expected to get smarter with some key feature updates. For the AirPods Pro 2 and upcoming AirPods 4, Apple is reportedly introducing new head gesture controls. These would allow users to exit features like “Conversation Awareness” simply by nodding or shaking their head, removing the need to use physical controls. Another highlight is “Automatic Sleep Detection,” a feature designed to detect when a user has fallen asleep while wearing AirPods and pause audio playback accordingly. While it’s unclear whether this will be integrated with Apple Watch’s sleep tracking features, it reflects Apple’s continued emphasis on health and seamless user experience.

And iOS 19, of course

In terms of software updates, Apple is not expected to announce iOS 19 this year. Instead, rumors are pointing toward a strategic leap in the naming convention. The company might jump directly to iOS 26 in 2026, possibly to bring version numbering in sync across its various operating systems — such as macOS and watchOS — streamlining Apple’s ecosystem.

Overall, WWDC 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark event for Apple, not only setting the tone for the next wave of hardware but also laying the foundation for the company’s evolving software strategy. With rumors suggesting revolutionary product designs, enhanced customization, and smarter features, this year’s keynote is expected to offer a compelling look at the future of Apple’s ecosystem.