With WWDC 2025 coming soon at 1 a.m. Beijing time on June 11, Apple will soon release a new generation of operating systems including iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, visionOS 26, and even the rumored homeOS may be unveiled. But the most eye-catching thing this year is the new visual language introduced by iOS 26 - the "Liquid Glass" interface. This may be the key preparation Apple has laid the key for the 20th anniversary of the iPhone.

From "Flat" to "glass": iOS 26 design evolution

According to Bloomberg tech reporter Mark Gurman, iOS 26 will adopt a new visual style - Liquid Glass, with a glass-like luster and multi-layer transparent texture. Interface elements including control center, toolbar, application UI and other interface elements will be completely renewed.

This style change symbolizes that Apple is getting rid of the flat design that has lasted for ten years since iOS 7, and moving towards a more profound, dynamic and technological visual experience, and it also forms a unity with the visual sensual texture of visionOS.

Is the 20th anniversary version of iPhone coming? Liquid Glass lays the groundwork in advance

Apple's update of interface style has always been not an isolated aesthetic attempt, but is closely related to hardware innovation. According to reports, Apple is developing an iPhone commemorative model code-named "Glasswing", which is expected to be released in 2027, coincides with the 20th anniversary of the launch of the iPhone.

The design of this model is inspired by a butterfly with transparent wings. It will use full-body curved glass, ultra-narrow frames and no hole screen to achieve a truly integrated design. The liquid glass interface brought by iOS 26 is to lay a solid foundation for this future form.

AI deployment is still restrained, and Apple's style is still "slow work and meticulous work"

Although design innovations have attracted much attention, Apple is still cautious in AI functions. Mark Gurman described Apple's current strategy as "it built the best fuel vehicle when the industry turned to electric cars."

Apple has not yet fully promoted the integration of generative AI or large language models like its opponents, but this may also mean that it is brewing a more complete and secure AI architecture layout that may be gradually launched in the next few years.

If you are concerned about Apple's next-generation device form, you might as well start with iOS 26 and experience Apple's conception and aesthetic language for the future in advance.