iOS 19: Features We Hope to See in Apple’s Next Update

Apple’s iOS 19: What to Expect

Apple is gearing up to unveil its latest iPhone operating system, iOS 19, during the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025, scheduled for June 9. This update is expected to bring a significant redesign to the iPhone’s interface, aligning it more closely with Apple’s broader ecosystem, including visionOS and the Vision Pro spatial computer. The redesign could fundamentally change the look and feel of the operating system, making it more cohesive across devices like iPhones, iPads, and Macs.

While iOS 18 introduced features like RCS messaging and enhanced Apple Intelligence, users and experts alike have high hopes for iOS 19. From improved multitasking to smarter photo organization, here’s a detailed look at the features we hope to see in Apple’s next big update.

Split-Screen Functionality for Multitasking

One of the most requested features for iOS 19 is native split-screen functionality. While this feature has been available on Android devices and iPads for years, iPhone users still lack the ability to run two apps side by side. This addition could significantly enhance productivity, allowing users to, for example, run a calculator app alongside a budgeting tool without constantly switching between apps. Such a feature would be particularly beneficial for professionals and students who rely on multitasking.

Enhanced Fitness Tracking Without an Apple Watch

Currently, Apple’s Fitness app heavily relies on the Apple Watch for tracking workouts. However, many users hope iOS 19 will allow them to start and track workouts directly from their iPhones. By leveraging indicators like distance and pace, the iPhone could provide a comprehensive workout experience, even for those who don’t own an Apple Watch. This feature would make fitness tracking more accessible to a broader audience.

Improved Messaging Experience

Despite the introduction of RCS messaging in iOS 18, the distinction between green and blue text bubbles remains a sore point for many users. iPhone users often face criticism for the “green bubble” experience when texting Android users. A unified messaging experience that eliminates this divide could foster better communication across platforms and reduce unnecessary friction between users.

Smarter App Management

Managing unused apps can be a cumbersome task. iOS 19 could introduce a feature that allows users to identify and delete unused apps more efficiently. By displaying information such as installation date and last usage, the operating system could help users declutter their devices without the need for manual intervention. This feature would be a welcome addition for users who have accumulated numerous apps over the years.

Searchable Clipboard Manager

The current iOS clipboard functionality is limited to storing a single copied item at a time. A searchable clipboard manager could revolutionize how users handle copy-and-paste tasks. By retaining a history of copied items for a set period, users could easily access and paste previously copied content. This feature would be particularly useful for professionals and students who frequently work with text and data.

More Customization Options

Customization has always been a point of contention for iOS users. While recent updates have introduced some flexibility, many users still find Apple’s grid-based system restrictive. iOS 19 could address this by allowing users to move lock screen controls, rearrange home screen icons freely, and customize the Control Center. Such changes would offer a more personalized user experience.

Advanced Action Button Features

The Action button, introduced in recent iPhone models, offers a range of functionalities but is currently limited to single-action triggers. Expanding its capabilities to include multiple input options, such as double-clicks or long presses, could make the button significantly more versatile. Users could assign different actions to various input methods, enhancing the device’s overall functionality.

Better Video Editing Tools

With the ability to shoot Log videos directly on iPhones, many users hope iOS 19 will introduce advanced editing tools for these high-quality videos. Currently, editing Log footage requires transferring files to an iPad or Mac. Adding cinematic color grading and other advanced editing features directly to the iPhone could make it a more powerful tool for filmmakers and content creators.

AI-Driven Photo Organization

Organizing photos manually can be a time-consuming process. iOS 19 could leverage AI to automatically group photos by events, creating a timeline view within the Photos app. For instance, photos taken during a birthday party could be grouped together, allowing users to easily revisit specific memories. This feature would build on the AI capabilities introduced in iOS 18, such as improved image recognition.

Unified Volume Controls

Volume settings on iOS can vary depending on the context, leading to inconsistent user experiences. iOS 19 could introduce a unified volume control system that maintains consistent settings across all applications and scenarios. This small but impactful change would simplify device usage and reduce user frustration.

Why the Redesign Matters

The anticipated redesign in iOS 19 is more than just a cosmetic update. By aligning the iPhone’s interface with visionOS and other Apple platforms, the update could pave the way for a more unified ecosystem. This cohesion would make it easier for users to transition between devices, such as iPhones, iPads, and Macs, without a steep learning curve. Additionally, the redesign could serve as a precursor to Apple’s future ventures into AI and augmented reality, as evidenced by the Vision Pro spatial computer.

Source: CNET, Bloomberg, Front Page Tech