Apple is gearing up for its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025, scheduled to begin on June 9. As anticipation builds, the tech world is abuzz with rumors and reports about what the Cupertino-based company plans to unveil. Chief among them is a potential major redesign of watchOS, Apple’s dedicated operating system for the Apple Watch.
According to a recent report, watchOS 12 is expected to feature a significant visual overhaul, marking one of the biggest changes to the platform in recent years. The redesign is said to modernize the user interface and enhance navigation, offering a more intuitive and visually engaging experience for users.
In addition to watchOS, Apple may also introduce visual updates to other platforms including tvOS and visionOS. Speculation suggests that Apple will emphasize aesthetics in this year’s software updates, with new color schemes, typography, and animations. A recently revealed 3D reflective icon inspired by the Apple Park rainbow stage has fueled rumors of a glass-like or transparent design language, possibly hinting at a broader shift in Apple’s visual identity.
Sources indicate that the redesign may draw inspiration from visionOS, Apple’s mixed-reality operating system, aiming to create a unified aesthetic across devices. This cohesive design could foster better interaction between Apple’s ecosystem of products, enabling a smoother and more seamless user experience.
Key Features Expected in watchOS 12
Deeper AI Integration through Apple Intelligence
While the Apple Watch may not run AI features independently, watchOS 12 is expected to leverage the capabilities of the iPhone for enhanced AI-driven experiences. This integration, under the umbrella of “Apple Intelligence,” may streamline user interactions and offer smarter functionalities.
Live Captions for Accessibility
Apple has already previewed new accessibility enhancements, including Live Captions for the Apple Watch. This feature, tailored for users with hearing impairments, will enable real-time captioning and allow the Watch to function as a remote control, making it a more inclusive tool.
Advanced Health Monitoring
Apple continues to strengthen its focus on health and wellness. At WWDC 2025, the company is expected to unveil new health tracking features such as blood pressure monitoring and sleep apnea detection. A new “Training Load” metric may also be introduced in the Fitness app, offering users more detailed insights into their exercise and recovery patterns.
With just days to go before WWDC 2025, expectations are high. If the rumors prove true, Apple Watch users—both current and prospective—could be looking at the most significant evolution of the wearable’s software to date.
