The Most Prominent New Features Coming to iPhone in iOS 19

As we approach the anticipated release of iOS 19, Apple is set to unveil significant updates that will enhance the user experience on iPhones. The first beta version is expected to be released shortly after the opening speech at WWDC 2025 on June 9, with the final version likely available to all users in September. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the most notable rumoured features for iOS 19.

1. New User Interface Design

One of the most exciting updates in iOS 19 is a complete redesign of the user interface inspired by visionOS, the operating system used in the Apple Vision Pro headset. Key changes include:

• Semi-transparent Effects: The new design will incorporate semi-transparent elements in menus, buttons, and other user interface components, creating a more modern and sleek look.
• Curved Application Icons: Icons for applications are expected to feature a more rounded aesthetic, enhancing visual appeal.
• Floating Tab Bar: A new floating bar will introduce tabs for core Apple applications, allowing for easier navigation and accessibility.

2. Full End-to-End Encryption for RCS Messages

Apple has announced plans to implement full end-to-end encryption for RCS (Rich Communication Services) messages within its messaging application across iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS. This enhancement means

• Privacy Assurance: Messages and attachments will be unreadable by Apple or any third parties during transmission, ensuring user confidentiality.
• New Messaging Features: Along with encryption, iOS 19 is expected to introduce several new functionalities for RCS messages, including
  • In-line Responses: Users can reply directly within a message thread.
  • Message Editing: Users will be able to edit messages after they are sent.
  • Undo Send: The option to retract messages will provide more control over communications.
  • Enhanced Tapback Support: A full Tapback bar will allow users to quickly respond with emojis.

These features are expected in iOS 19 or one of its subsequent updates, such as iOS 19.1 or 19.2.

3. Simultaneous Translation in AirPods

A standout feature for iOS 19 is the addition of simultaneous translation capabilities in certain models of AirPods. This functionality will work as follows:

• When a Spanish speaker communicates with an English speaker, the iPhone will automatically translate spoken words into the listener's language.
• This feature promotes seamless communication across language barriers, making conversations more fluid and accessible.

4. Smart Training Feature in the Health App

The Health app is set to receive a significant overhaul, introducing new features designed to enhance user health and wellness. Key aspects include

• AI-Powered Health Training: Users will benefit from personalised health recommendations powered by artificial intelligence, tailored to individual health needs.
• Educational Videos: The app will provide informative videos from health experts addressing various health conditions and lifestyle improvements. For example, if an Apple Watch detects irregular heart rate patterns, a relevant video may appear, educating the user about potential heart disease risks.
• Food Tracking: An integrated food tracking feature will help users monitor their dietary habits, positioning the Health app as a competitor to popular nutrition apps like MyFitnessPal.

5. Improved Siri Voice Assistant

Apple's Siri voice assistant is also expected to undergo enhancements, with the new version potentially launching alongside iOS 19 or in its subsequent updates. Improvements will likely include:

• Contextual Understanding: Siri will gain the ability to interpret user context more effectively, leading to more relevant responses.
• Content Awareness: The assistant will be more aware of the content displayed on the screen, facilitating better interactions.
• Enhanced Application Access: Users will experience improved access to various applications through Siri, streamlining tasks and commands.

These advancements will be exclusive to devices equipped with the Apple Intelligence system, including the iPhone 15 Pro and all models of the iPhone 16.

The upcoming release of iOS 19 promises to bring a wealth of new features and enhancements that could significantly improve the iPhone user experience. From a revamped user interface to cutting-edge privacy features and enhancements in health tracking and voice assistance, Apple seems poised to set a new standard in mobile operating systems. Users can look forward to these exciting developments as they prepare for the official launch later this year.