Apple iOS 19 to Launch in June: Key Features, Siri Upgrades & Compatible iPhones
Apple is set to launch iOS 19 in June 2025, and early leaks suggest it will be one of the most significant updates in years. The official unveiling will take place at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025, but reports have already provided a glimpse of what to expect. From a redesigned interface inspired by visionOS to smarter Siri and Live Translate with AirPods, iOS 19 promises a host of exciting features.
Revamped Design with a visionOS Influence
Apple is expected to introduce its most significant design overhaul since iOS 7. According to a report by MacRumors, iOS 19 will feature a visionOS-inspired interface. The Camera app will receive a major redesign, featuring larger viewfinders and translucent controls, while this new design language is expected to extend to notifications, built-in Apple apps, and more.
Smarter and More Personalized Siri
Apple has been developing a more advanced version of Siri that offers deeper integration with apps and understands personal context better. This upgrade will allow Siri to fetch relevant information from emails and messages, making interactions more intuitive. Although these enhancements were initially previewed at WWDC 2024, their rollout was delayed. They are now expected to arrive with iOS 19.4 or a later update.
Live Translate with AirPods
A standout feature of iOS 19 is Live Translate for AirPods. This functionality will enable real-time language translation during conversations, similar to Google’s Live Translate. To use this feature, an AirPods firmware update will be required.
Enhanced Messaging with Encrypted RCS
Apple is finally adding end-to-end encryption for RCS messages, significantly improving iPhone texting security. Additional messaging upgrades include:
- In-line replies
- Message editing
- Unsend messages
Full Tapback support for RCS conversations
While these features have been available for iMessage, iOS 19 will extend them to RCS chats, making Android-to-iPhone messaging more seamless and secure.
EU-Driven Changes to iOS
To comply with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, Apple is introducing several changes, including:
- Third-party smartwatches must be able to interact with iOS notifications by 2025.
- Automatic audio switching between Apple devices (such as AirPods and Beats) must be extended to third-party headphones by 2026.
- Apple must allow third-party alternatives to AirDrop and AirPlay in future updates.
These changes aim to make iOS more open to third-party accessories and services.
iOS 19: Compatible iPhones
Apple is expected to support all iPhones that currently run iOS 18. Here is a list of compatible devices:
- iPhone 16 series (all models)
- iPhone 15 series
- iPhone 14 series
- iPhone 13 series
- iPhone 12 series
- iPhone 11 series
- iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR
- iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)
Older models will receive the update, though some features may be limited due to hardware constraints.
iOS 19 Release Timeline
Apple is expected to announce iOS 19 at WWDC 2025 in June, with the first developer beta launching immediately after. A public beta is expected in July, followed by the final release in September 2025, coinciding with the launch of the iPhone 17 series.
