Introduction

Apple's WWDC 2025 introduced some of the most transformative features in recent memory from the visually stunning Liquid Glass UI to powerful on-device AI capabilities. These aren’t just cosmetic changes or feature upgrades, they signal a major shift in how developers build, optimize, and think about user experiences.

So, what does this mean if you're building for iOS, iPadOS, or VisionOS? In this post, we’ll break down the implications for software developers, highlight key features, and explore what opportunities (and challenges) this new era brings.

What Changed: Liquid Glass & Local Intelligence

Apple’s latest design and architecture upgrades center on two major shifts:

Liquid Glass UI

Apple has introduced a new glass-based design language that blends translucency, motion, and layered depth in ways we haven’t seen before. Unlike past trends, it’s not just about aesthetics, it’s deeply tied to interaction logic.

• Implication for devs: You’ll need to rethink layout logic, hierarchy, and contrast more dynamically.

• Opportunity: Apps that feel immersive and native will be favored by users and potentially Apple’s own spotlight curation.

On-Device AI

With Apple Intelligence now running entirely on-device (thanks to new Apple Silicon advancements), developers can now:

• Run ML models natively

• Access faster response times without internet

• Leverage privacy-first AI features like summarization, language generation, and intent detection

How Developers Can Adapt

To thrive in this new ecosystem, developers should consider a few key areas:

Design Systems Must Evolve

Apple’s Liquid Glass UI means more responsiveness, depth, and animation-aware design. Developers will need to:

• Adopt SwiftUI updates immediately

• Design with layering and translucency in mind

• Use Apple’s new design resources and Figma kits for consistency

AI Features Become Default

With Apple Intelligence deeply embedded:

• You can now personalize user experiences (e.g. suggestions, summarizations) using on-device models

• Leverage App Intents for deep Siri integration without cloud dependency

• Expect a rise in AI-driven context-aware interfaces

What This Unlocks for App Developers

Here are a few real-world implications and opportunities:

• Instant Summaries: Summarize long documents, chats, or content using Apple’s on-device models

• Voice Interaction: Integrate seamlessly with Apple’s smarter Siri using App Intents

• Private Personalization: Build experiences that get better over time without compromising privacy

• More Native Feel: Apps that follow Apple’s new paradigms will get better performance and user reception

Getting Started

If you're a developer or product manager, here’s how to begin adapting:

• Update Your Stack: Adopt the latest Xcode and SwiftUI standards

• Revisit Your Design System: Align your UI with Apple’s new Glass guidelines

• Explore App Intents: Use them for AI-driven interactions, even offline

• Test On-Device: Begin testing models locally to assess latency and UX

Wondering what more is possible?

These updates are just the start. Apple’s AI-native shift means apps are expected to be smarter, more responsive, and more private by default.

Let’s build something smarter together. Get in touch!