Apple is expected to change the numbering of its operating systems at its annual Worldwide Developers Conference next week, among other big announcements.
The tech major's next iOS will bear the “26" suffix, to reflect the “season” they will be used in – in this case, 2025-2026 – according to a recent Bloomberg report.
The new version of the iOS is typically released with the next generation of iPhones, which are expected in September.
The WWDC, Apple's main event for software, is also expected to introduce new iterations of its operating systems for the iPhone, iPad, Mac, Watch, TV and Vision Pro.
We look at what to expect at the Cupertino-based company's software showcase.
From 18 to 26
The renaming of Apple's operating system would mean that instead of iOS 19, iPadOS 19, macOS 16, tvOS 19, watchOS 12 and visionOS 3, we can expect “26" on all of them. The move won't make a major impact, but from a consistency standpoint, it makes sense.
Apple's move is also reminiscent of when Samsung Electronics' flagship Galaxy S phone model leapt from S10 to S20 in time for the year 2020.
Apple Intelligence boost
The company's generative AI service, Apple Intelligence, has garnered mostly positive reviews, centred on it being seamless across the Apple ecosystem.
At the WWDC, Apple is expected to build on its existing features and introduce new ones, but it remains unclear what those will be.
Reports suggest that the main Apple Intelligence update will be focused on the Health app. That would mean enhanced insights and, possibly, better integration in sharing health reports to medical professionals and more collaboration with health care companies and providers.
It would not be a surprise to see Apple aligning with more health-orientated entities as it has done so with other segments, including fitness and gaming.
The company had made it clear even before the release of Apple Intelligence that its services would be rolled out in phases. That typical of Apple – test the waters and make the necessary adjustments.
We can also expect a smarter Siri.
Live translation on AirPods Pro 2
Another possibility that has been floating around for a while is live translation on the AirPods Pro 2 – a tool that would come in handy for those who travel a lot.
Apple already has a Translate app on iPhones and iPads, supporting spoken and written inputs in 21 languages.
The Translate app provides convenience – but being able to get through language barriers without having to whip out your device would be a welcome addition.
Biggest design update in a dozen years
Multiple reports have suggested that iOS 26 will bear an all-new look, which would be the biggest design upgrade – “one of the most dramatic”, Bloomberg says – since iOS 7 in 2013.
Changes are expected on icons, interfaces and fonts to transform the user experience. Apple already did a good job on iOS 18, introducing a new look by giving icons light, dark and tinted appearances.
We wouldn't mind some new emojis, either taking Apple's total towards the 4,000 mark.
Any hardware?
Though typically a software event, Apple has, in recent years, introduced new devices at the WWDC.
That seems unlikely this year, as iPhones and Apple Watches traditionally come in September, while iPads and Macs have been updated in phases in recent months.
If Apple is to unveil new hardware, it will most likely be AirPods, specifically a new Pro model, which was last updated in 2022. This would sit comfortably alongside possibility of live translation.
As for Macs, the only plausible update would be for the Mac Pro, although given the time since the last version it is highly unlikely; the last Mac Pro update was released at WWDC 2023.
And it wouldn't be a WWDC without the usual developer software updates – ARKit, HealthKit, Metal, etc – to power Apple's vast hardware line-up.
The specs
AT4 Ultimate, as tested
Engine: 6.2-litre V8
Power: 420hp
Torque: 623Nm
Transmission: 10-speed automatic
Price: From Dh330,800 (Elevation: Dh236,400; AT4: Dh286,800; Denali: Dh345,800)
On sale: Now
Our family matters legal consultant
Name: Hassan Mohsen Elhais
Position: legal consultant with Al Rowaad Advocates and Legal Consultants.
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F1 The Movie
Starring: Brad Pitt, Damson Idris, Kerry Condon, Javier Bardem
Director: Joseph Kosinski
Rating: 4/5
Stats at a glance:
Cost: 1.05 billion pounds (Dh 4.8 billion)
Number in service: 6
Complement 191 (space for up to 285)
Top speed: over 32 knots
Range: Over 7,000 nautical miles
Length 152.4 m
Displacement: 8,700 tonnes
Beam: 21.2 m
Draught: 7.4 m
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UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
SPECS
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England's all-time record goalscorers:
Wayne Rooney 53
Bobby Charlton 49
Gary Lineker 48
Jimmy Greaves 44
Michael Owen 40
Tom Finney 30
Nat Lofthouse 30
Alan Shearer 30
Viv Woodward 29
Frank Lampard 29
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KILLING OF QASSEM SULEIMANI
Labour dispute
The insured employee may still file an ILOE claim even if a labour dispute is ongoing post termination, but the insurer may suspend or reject payment, until the courts resolve the dispute, especially if the reason for termination is contested. The outcome of the labour court proceedings can directly affect eligibility.
- Abdullah Ishnaneh, Partner, BSA Law
ELIO
Starring: Yonas Kibreab, Zoe Saldana, Brad Garrett
Directors: Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi, Adrian Molina
Rating: 4/5
UPI facts
More than 2.2 million Indian tourists arrived in UAE in 2023
More than 3.5 million Indians reside in UAE
Indian tourists can make purchases in UAE using rupee accounts in India through QR-code-based UPI real-time payment systems
Indian residents in UAE can use their non-resident NRO and NRE accounts held in Indian banks linked to a UAE mobile number for UPI transactions
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Habibi Funk: An Eclectic Selection Of Music From The Arab World (Habibi Funk)
The specs
Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo
Power: 240hp at 5,500rpm
Torque: 390Nm at 3,000rpm
Transmission: eight-speed auto
Price: from Dh122,745
On sale: now
'Texas Chainsaw Massacre'
Rating: 1 out of 4
Running time: 81 minutes
Director: David Blue Garcia
Starring: Sarah Yarkin, Elsie Fisher, Mark Burnham
UK's plans to cut net migration
Under the UK government’s proposals, migrants will have to spend 10 years in the UK before being able to apply for citizenship.
Skilled worker visas will require a university degree, and there will be tighter restrictions on recruitment for jobs with skills shortages.
But what are described as "high-contributing" individuals such as doctors and nurses could be fast-tracked through the system.
Language requirements will be increased for all immigration routes to ensure a higher level of English.
Rules will also be laid out for adult dependants, meaning they will have to demonstrate a basic understanding of the language.
The plans also call for stricter tests for colleges and universities offering places to foreign students and a reduction in the time graduates can remain in the UK after their studies from two years to 18 months.
Electric scooters: some rules to remember
- Riders must be 14-years-old or over
- Wear a protective helmet
- Park the electric scooter in designated parking lots (if any)
- Do not leave electric scooter in locations that obstruct traffic or pedestrians
- Solo riders only, no passengers allowed
- Do not drive outside designated lanes
Company profile
Date started: 2015
Founder: John Tsioris and Ioanna Angelidaki
Based: Dubai
Sector: Online grocery delivery
Staff: 200
Funding: Undisclosed, but investors include the Jabbar Internet Group and Venture Friends
Key facilities
- Olympic-size swimming pool with a split bulkhead for multi-use configurations, including water polo and 50m/25m training lanes
- Premier League-standard football pitch
- 400m Olympic running track
- NBA-spec basketball court with auditorium
- 600-seat auditorium
- Spaces for historical and cultural exploration
- An elevated football field that doubles as a helipad
- Specialist robotics and science laboratories
- AR and VR-enabled learning centres
- Disruption Lab and Research Centre for developing entrepreneurial skills
Benefits of first-time home buyers' scheme
- Priority access to new homes from participating developers
- Discounts on sales price of off-plan units
- Flexible payment plans from developers
- Mortgages with better interest rates, faster approval times and reduced fees
- DLD registration fee can be paid through banks or credit cards at zero interest rates
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England v South Africa schedule
- First Test: Starts Thursday, Lord's, 2pm (UAE)
- Second Test: July 14-18, Trent Bridge, Nottingham, 2pm
- Third Test: The Oval, London, July 27-31, 2pm
- Fourth Test: Old Trafford, Manchester, August 4-8
Specs
Engine: Duel electric motors
Power: 659hp
Torque: 1075Nm
On sale: Available for pre-order now
Price: On request
Teaching in coronavirus times
Global state-owned investor ranking by size
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1.
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United States
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2.
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China
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3.
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UAE
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4.
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Japan
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5
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Norway
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6.
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Canada
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7.
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Singapore
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8.
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Australia
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9.
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Saudi Arabia
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South Korea
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TOUR RESULTS AND FIXTURES
June 3: NZ Provincial Barbarians 7 Lions 13
June 7: Blues 22 Lions 16
June 10: Crusaders 3 Lions 12
June 13: Highlanders 23 Lions 22
June 17: Maori All Blacks 10 Lions 32
June 20: Chiefs 6 Lions 34
June 24: New Zealand 30 Lions 15
June 27: Hurricanes 31 Lions 31
July 1: New Zealand 21 Lions 24
July 8: New Zealand v Lions
A list of the animal rescue organisations in the UAE
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How to vote in the UAE
1) Download your ballot https://www.fvap.gov/
2) Take it to the US Embassy
3) Deadline is October 15
4) The embassy will ensure all ballots reach the US in time for the November 3 poll
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Tips to stay safe during hot weather
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can increase dehydration.
- Seek cool environments: Use air conditioning, fans, or visit community spaces with climate control.
- Limit outdoor activities: Avoid strenuous activity during peak heat. If outside, seek shade and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
- Dress appropriately: Wear lightweight, loose and light-coloured clothing to facilitate heat loss.
- Check on vulnerable people: Regularly check in on elderly neighbours, young children and those with health conditions.
- Home adaptations: Use blinds or curtains to block sunlight, avoid using ovens or stoves, and ventilate living spaces during cooler hours.
- Recognise heat illness: Learn the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke (dizziness, confusion, rapid pulse, nausea), and seek medical attention if symptoms occur.
