New leaks about iOS 19 confirm major design changes that support previously reported circular icons and a floating tab bar, with touches inspired by Apple's visionOS system for glasses.
Every year, millions of users around the world await Apple's new and major iOS updates, and this year is no exception. As WWDC 2025 approaches next May, leaks have begun to emerge revealing a new design for iOS 19. These changes are not just minor improvements; they represent a revolution in appearance and performance that could change the way we interact with the iPhone. Whether you're a fan of the new design or looking for new features and improvements, let's take a look at what Apple has in store for us.
Overview of the new iOS 19 design
According to recent leaks from inside sources, Apple appears to be preparing to introduce a design inspired by the previously mentioned visionOS, which features a transparent glass appearance that some claim adds a sense of depth and elegance. Let's review the most prominent anticipated changes:
circular icons
One of the most controversial leaks is Apple's move to more rounded app icons. Currently, it uses square icons with rounded corners, known as "squircles." However, with iOS 19, we may see circular or semi-circular icons.
According to the leaks, the user can long-press the icon to transform it from the traditional shape to a circular one, with animation.
Apple seems to be trying to bring the iPhone experience closer to visionOS, creating visual harmony between its products.
floating tab bar
Its purpose is to navigate between tabs in your favorite apps like the App Store, Apple TV, Messages, Phone, and others. It's bigger than ever, with a pill-shaped rectangular tab bar appearing at the bottom of many of the core apps like the ones we mentioned.
Also in the Search tab, an elongated search bar appears next to a circular button that you can click to return to the expanded tab bar. The video shows new animations when switching between tabs in the ribbon.
In the Messages app, it appears the search bar will always be fixed, making it easier for users to quickly access the search function at any time.
Transparency and glass effects
◉ Leaks indicate that Apple will adopt greater transparency for interactive elements such as buttons, menus, notifications, and even the volume and brightness levels in Control Center. The appearance of permission prompts for camera and microphone access has also been updated.
◉ When you long-press an app icon, the Haptic Touch menu will appear with rounded corners and a translucent appearance that appears to float above the screen.
◉ Prosser noted that iOS 19 will add a subtle lighting effect to some elements, contributing to the expected glass-like appearance. For example, he noted that the virtual controls for the flashlight and camera at the bottom of the lock screen will glow when the iPhone is moved, adding an element of vibrancy and visual interaction with the device's movement.
Improvements to core applications
The changes will not be limited to the overall design, but will extend to the core applications that you use daily.
◉ The messaging app will receive significant improvements, especially in the search feature as we mentioned earlier.
◉ Permanent search bar, you don't need to scroll to access the search bar, it will remain available at the top of the screen.
◉ The new design makes searching for conversations or files faster and easier.
◉ Leaks indicate updates to the camera app interface, with new buttons and effects that make taking photos a more enjoyable experience.
◉ The expected design changes extend to the Settings app, which appears to be getting slimmer toggles, giving the app a sleeker, more modern look.
◉ Even the virtual keyboard will get a visual update, with a more rounded design and transparent effects.
When can we try iOS 19?
According to the expected schedule, Apple will unveil iOS 19 during its WWDC conference on June 9, 2025. The first beta will be available to developers immediately after the keynote, while the final version is expected to be released to the public in September 2025, coinciding with the launch of the new iPhones. Watch the video:
With the announcement of iOS 19 approaching, it appears Apple is preparing to deliver an update that combines elegance and innovation. From circular icons to glass effects and intelligent navigation, this update promises to make using your iPhone more enjoyable than ever. Whether you're a fan of big changes or prefer subtle improvements, iOS 19 has something for everyone.
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