iOS 15: Rumors and Expectations

iOS 14.5 is on its way, but Apple is already working on the next major update that usually comes out in the fall. We all got used to new amaaaay-zing features it always brings. So, what should we expect this time?

When?

Usually, the new iOS version is rolled out soon after the new iPhones are announced at the fall event. This may take a week or two after the announce. Soon after the first release is rolled out and the developers have enough bugs reported, some patches are issued just to fix bugs. Functional updates follow a bit later. So, expect it in September or October 2021. The beta version, though, can be shown at WWDC that usually takes place in the early summer. Then we will be able to watch the first reviews from beta testers and see how it looks like and how it performs.

The Weakest Link

Of course, the new iPhone (call it iPhone 13) will be the first device to come with iOS 15, and recent ones will receive it a bit later. But who’s the weakest link this year? The rumor has it that iPhone 6/6 Plus, iPhone SE 2016, and some iPad models will be deprived of this update. Instead, Apple will roll out security patches for the most recent iOS 14 they have. As for the devices that do expect the update (iPhone 7 or newer), they should have A10 chip or later.

Appearance Changes

The main change on the home screen will probably be interactive widgets (like those we already have on Android). Another experience changer is a redesigned control center that will rather remind that of MacOS. Given that Apple does a lot to merge the experience on these devices (look at the dock in iPadOS), this can make it to the final version. Another feature that may be introduced is improved drag-and-drop that is so far of very limited use.

And almost certainly there will be new backgrounds and icons. None of them have been so far shown, though (though some have leaked, showing more in-depth, 3D-inspired approach). Even when they make it to a beta, they can be replaced in the next.

Functional Changes

Of course, a lot will be defined by hardware innovations in new generation iPhones and iPads. It’s too early to mention these so far, except for, maybe, always-on display that can appear in iPhone 13. But some features don’t require a new touch sensor, CPU, GPU, or super-duper camera module with lidar features. For example, you will be able to change default apps, if you prefer Chrome as your default browser, and, say, Spotify as your favorite music player.

There will also be a lot of bug fixing and performance tweaks, for sure. It makes no sense to expect the opposite after an attempt to limit the performance led to the scandalous class action lawsuit. Still, compatibility issues remain.

Oh, Little 15!

So, if your device can run iOS 15 (or you decide to upgrade), you will be able to see and touch it probably in September. But there will be more leaks until them, and when the moment comes, you will be prepared. So far you can share it on Facebook or Twitter for your friends, or leave a comment if you have something to add or a question to ask.