WWDC 2026 guide: Date, time, how to watch and what Apple could announce

WWDC (Worldwide Developers Conference) is Apple’s week-long annual developer event, where the company sets the agenda for the next twelve months with a preview of the changes coming to its various operating systems in the fall. While WWDC is primarily a technical conference for developers – for whom it is the most important date on Apple’s calendar – it is also a major consumer-facing showcase.

The event begins with a keynote, during which Apple reveals the new features coming to the iPhone, iPad, Mac and more later in the year. This year, the WWDC keynote will take place on Monday, June 8, 2026, starting at 10am PT. During the presentation, Apple is expected to unveil major updates to its operating systems, including iOS, macOS, iPadOS, watchOS, tvOS and visionOS. Among the anticipated announcements are a significant overhaul of Siri, expanded use of AI across the system, and the potential launch of new Mac hardware.

Following the keynote, developers will be able to install the first developer betas and begin the summer-long process of updating their apps and building new features ahead of the public release in the fall. A public beta will likely follow in July, giving users the chance to try out the upcoming features early. Learn about participating in Apple’s beta software program so you can test the new software as soon as the beta arrives. Eventually, the new software will be available for everyone to download in the fall (usually September for iOS/iPadOS/watchOS and either September or October for macOS.

In this guide, we cover everything expected at WWDC 2026, along with details on how to watch the keynote wherever you are. If you want a first look at the features coming to Apple’s software – and insight into the company’s future direction – read on.

WWDC 2026 Date: When is WWDC?

• WWDC (Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference) runs from June 8 to June 12, 2026
• The WWDC Keynote starts at 10am PT on Monday June 8

Apple has announced the dates for WWDC 2026. As we predicted, the WWDC event will run from June 8 to 12. The keynote is likely to take place on Monday June 8.

WWDC 2026 keynote time: What time does WWDC start?

The keynote will start at the usual time of 10am in California. If you are wondering what time will the WWDC keynote start where you are, use this as a quick reference:

• U.S.: 10 a.m. (PDT), 11 a.m. (MDT), 12 p.m. (CDT), 1 p.m. (EDT)
• Canada: 2 p.m. (ADT)
• U.K.: 6 p.m. (BST)
• Europe: 7 p.m. (CEST)
• India: 10:30 p.m. (IST)
• Singapore and China: 1 a.m. the next day (SGT/CST)
• Japan: 2 a.m. the next day (JST)
• Australia: 1 a.m. the next day (AWST), 2:30 a.m. the next day (ACST), 3 a.m. the next day (AEST)
• New Zealand: 5 a.m. the next day (NZST)

How to watch WWDC 2026

Apple will livestream the WWDC 2026 keynote across multiple platforms, including its website, YouTube, the Apple TV app and the Apple Developer app. This means you’ll be able to watch the presentation on iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV and even a Windows PC.

If you miss the event, the keynote will be available to watch on demand shortly after it ends.

Ahead of the event, we will embed Apple’s YouTube livestream at the top of this article so you can watch it easily. We will also be running a live blog, bringing you real-time updates along with our analysis and commentary.

Where to watch

• Apple.com: Watch the keynote live on Apple’s website.
• Apple TV App: Available on Apple TV, smart TVs, iPhone, iPad and Mac.
• YouTube: Stream the keynote on Apple’s YouTube channel.
• Other platforms: You can watch via recent versions of Chrome or Firefox (supporting MSE, H.264 and AAC) by visiting Apple’s website.
• Apple Developer App and Website: Developers can watch the keynote as well as the Platforms State of the Union and all WWDC sessions that take place after the keynote.

What will Apple announce at WWDC 2026?

WWDC is primarily a software-focused event, and the main emphasis in 2026 will be the unveiling of Apple’s next-generation operating systems, including iOS 27, macOS 27, iPadOS 27, watchOS 27, visionOS 27 and other operating system updates. These updates are likely to reflect Apple’s reinvigorated push into AI.

While the conference centres on software, Apple has occasionally used WWDC to introduce new hardware. In 2026, the company could announce updated versions of the Mac mini and Mac Studio, although global RAM shortages could mean the wait extends beyond WWDC.

This year’s event is expected to be dominated by Apple’s push into artificial intelligence. In particular, attention will be on further developments in Apple Intelligence and a major overhaul of Siri.

Here’s what we expect Apple to reveal at this year’s event, from software and hardware to the possibility of entirely new products.

Siri & Apple Intelligence overhaul: Revamped and redesigned Siri

One of the central themes of WWDC 2026 is expected to be the completion of Apple’s Apple Intelligence roadmap, alongside a fundamental shift in Siri’s underlying architecture toward modern large language models (LLMs). The aim is to give Siri a much stronger understanding of natural language, broader world knowledge and more useful, context-aware responses – while maintaining Apple’s emphasis on user privacy.

Many of these features were originally planned for 2024 and 2025, but have since been pushed back into 2026. Following news earlier in 2026 of a multi-year collaboration between Apple and Google, Apple is now expected to use Google’s Gemini technology as a foundation for its next-generation AI systems, including the long-promised significantly upgraded Siri.

However, rather than relying directly on Google’s infrastructure, Apple is likely to deploy a customised version of these models, running either on-device or via its Private Cloud Compute system, in order to maintain its strict privacy standards.

The updated Siri is expected to be a cornerstone of Apple’s announcements. The next-generation assistant will likely feature a more conversational interface, deeper contextual awareness and significantly improved reliability, positioning it as a far more capable and integral part of the Apple ecosystem.

Anticipated Siri capabilities include:

• Chat-bot like capabilities: Rumors indicate a “modernized, conversational version of Siri”.
• Updated interface: A totally new Siri interface is expected, which may include a dedicated Ask button.
• On-Screen Awareness: The ability for Siri to understand and act upon what is currently visible on a user’s screen.
• Personal Context: Siri will build a private, on-device “knowledge graph” using a user’s mail, messages, and history to provide personalized answers.
• In-App Actions: Siri will have the ability to take actions across different apps in an expansion of “App Intents”.
• Smart Home Integration: Apple is reportedly planning a major smart home strategy for 2026, where the new Siri will serve as a primary interface for new devices like smart displays and cameras.

Beyond Siri, Apple’s partnership with Google is expected to underpin its broader AI platform, Apple Intelligence. This could translate into smarter on-device features, deeper integration of AI across apps, and new developer APIs that allow third-party software to tap into Apple’s AI capabilities.

WWDC software updates: What’s coming to Apple’s operating systems?

iOS 27

The centerpiece of iOS 27 is expected to be the conversational version of Siri. Other new features include:

• Folding iPhone: The introduction of software features specifically designed for Apple’s first folding iPhone. The software is expected to prioritize features tailored to the folding display, potentially drawing inspiration from iPadOS to ensure a seamless transition between the external cover and the larger internal screen.
• AI powered features: Apple is likely to unveil more advanced generative AI capabilities. These may extend across its Pro apps, as well as system-wide tools in iOS 27 and beyond.
• Health app: Apple promised an overhaul of the Health app for iOS 26. Instead smaller updates and improvments were rolled out. iOS 27 will surely deliver on Apple’s promise.
• Performance & Stability: Reports indicate that instead of a massive overhaul, iOS 27 will focus heavily on bug fixes and system stability.

macOS

macOS 27 is expected to bring deep AI integration as well as performance improvements.

• Performance & Stability: As with iOS 27, Apple is thought to be focused on speed and stability improvements for macOS 27.
• AI & Siri integration: Siri/Apple Intelligence upgrades will impact macOS 27.
• Interface unification: Apple may continue to unify its design language across platforms.
• Dynamic Island: One of the new interface elements could be Dynamic Island-style functionality on Mac with a Notch.
• No more Intel support: When Apple announced macOS 26 it said it would be the last macOS to support Intel.

watchOS 27

Those Siri developments will no doubt feature heavily in the Apple Watch operating system. In addition we expect:

• Health app overhaul: The Apple Watch is likely to benefit from Apple’s promised overhaul of the Health app, including a redesigned interface, a health coach, and more insights.
• Readiness score: AI powered “readiness” score based on sleep quality, heart rate and other factors, similar to the Body Battery feature offered by Garmin.

iPadOS 27

Many of the iOS 27 updates—especially those related to Siri and AI—are expected to carry over to iPadOS 27. However, Apple is likely to introduce features that take advantage of the iPad’s larger display, while also focusing on creative and professional users. Expected improvements include:

• Multitasking improvements: Further moves toward desktop-style workflows, with more flexible multi-app usage and better support for pro applications.
• Better background processing: The ability to render projects and export video in the background, allowing users to continue working without interruption.
• File management changes: Enhancements to the Files app, including better project organisation and improved support for external drives.
• macOS inspired touch-screen features: With the arrival of the MacBook Neo, the iPad may not appear as compelling as a laptop replacement, but it will continue to appeal as a touch-first pro device. It also gives Apple an opportunity to refine touch interfaces that could reportedly make their way to the rumored Touchscreen MacBook in late 2026 or early 2027.

tvOS 27, HomePodOS 27, visionOS 27 and other platforms

Updates across Apple’s home and spatial computing platforms are also expected. These are also likely to be impacted by the Siri and AI enhancements coming in fall 2026.

• New Apple TV hardware: The next Apple TV is said to have been delayed to accommodate the upcoming Siri improvements.
• AI powered recommendations: The Apple TV app already shows which service content is available on, but it could become even more powerful with personalised, AI-driven recommendations.
• HomeHub software: Apple TV or HomePod devices could further evolve as the centre of the smart home, acting as a more capable and intelligent home hub.

Developer Tools and APIs

For developers, Apple typically introduces new versions of Xcode and updated Swift frameworks.

• Updated APIs: APIs are likely to be updated to allow third-party apps to integrate more deeply with Apple’s identity and payment systems.
• Metal Updates: Metal, a key technology for Mac game developers, enabling features like MetalFX Frame Interpolation, will likely see further expansion at WWDC.

Also read: The 10 most significant WWDC software announcements of all time

WWDC hardware updates: Will Apple launch new hardware?

WWDC tends to be a software-focused event, so new hardware is never guaranteed. In addition, Apple has already completed a major spring launch cycle in March 2026, which included the MacBook Neo, iPhone 17e, M4 iPad Air, and M5 Pro/Max MacBook Pro models. However, there are still several hardware products that are rumored or expected to appear at the June 2026 event.

Expected Mac Updates

Based on current release cycles and expert analysis, several Mac models are due for an M5-series upgrade, however, global RAM shortages could impact on Apple’s ability to release these updates in June, so the launches could be pushed back to later in 2026.

• Mac Studio: The professional desktop is expected to gain the M5 Max and M5 Ultra chip by June 2026.
• Mac mini: The compact desktop is expected to benefit from a M5 and M5 Pro update.
• iMac: The consumer-focused all-in-one is a candidate for an M5 chip refresh during the WWDC timeframe.

Other rumored products

• Smart Glasses and Wearables: Reports from late 2025 suggested Apple might provide a “first glimpse of its smart glasses” soon. Given the developer focus of WWDC, a preview of the software platform for these glasses or a new AI-powered pendant is possible.
• Home Automation: Apple is reportedly developing a new home hub and a doorbell camera featuring Face ID, which could be integrated into the broader HomeKit discussions at the conference.
• HomePod/HomeHub: There are lots of rumors about different products, from a HomePod with a display to a screen with a robot arm.

Q&A

What is WWDC?

WWDC stands for the Worldwide Developers Conference and is dedicated to the third-party software and hardware developers that create apps and accessories for Apple’s platforms: iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, Apple Watch, HomePod and Vision Pro.

At the event Apple previews the software that will be coming to iPhones, Macs, iPads, Apple Watches, and so on, later in the year. A beta program starts after the event so that developers can start testing the new software, find out ways to use new features, and make sure it works with their apps.

Sometimes Apple launches new hardware at WWDC, but the key focus is always software.

What happens at WWDC?

The event typically begins with a high-profile keynote presentation that provides a “sneak peek” at the next versions of Apple’s software. Beyond the announcements, it is a week-long conference designed for the global developer community to learn about new technologies and APIs.

What time does WWDC start in the U.K.?

Apple’s 10am start in California translates to 6pm in the U.K.

How long is the WWDC keynote?

The WWDC Keynote is usually a long one because Apple has so much to cover. Recent examples include:

• 1 hour, 45 minutes in 2025
• 1 hour, 50 minutes in 2024
• 2 hours in 2023

We expect that 2026’s WWDC keynote will be a long one, especially with the major AI related announcements expected.

What happened at WWDC 2025

This event was particularly significant due to a massive visual overhaul and a change in how Apple names its software. It included:

• The “Liquid Glass” Redesign: Apple introduced a new design language called Liquid Glass, which brought translucent, reflective, and glossy elements across all platforms . This aesthetic features curved “squircles,” glass-like layers that react to content beneath them, and a fully transparent menu bar in macOS.
• Unified Version Numbering: Starting with the 2025 event, Apple synchronized the version numbers of all its operating systems to reflect the upcoming year. Consequently, the successors to iOS 18 and macOS 15 were named iOS 26 and macOS 26 Tahoe.
• Apple Intelligence and Siri: While Apple continued to integrate AI features—such as AI-powered battery management and smarter Reminders—the long-awaited “New Siri” revamp faced further delays. Reports following the event indicated that the more conversational, context-aware version of Siri might not arrive until late 2026 or 2027.

Key Software Features included:

• macOS 26 Tahoe: Introduced a significant overhaul to Spotlight, new mobile apps for the Mac (like Journal), and “Live Translation” for real-time communication in FaceTime and Messages.
• iPadOS 26: Added “Mac-like” multitasking, allowing apps like Final Cut Pro to continue intensive processes in the background, and replaced the circular cursor with a desktop-style arrow .
  watchOS 26: Opened the Apple Watch Control Center to third-party widgets for the first time, allowing apps like Spotify or Strava to offer one-tap toggles

Who should watch WWDC

Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) is a cornerstone event for anyone deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem, ranging from professional software creators to casual device owners. While the week-long program is technically dense, the opening keynote is designed for a global audience.

WWDC is considered the second-biggest event on Apple’s calendar, surpassed only by the fall iPhone launch. It’s the event to watch if you want to get insight into Apple’s long-term strategic vision. If you own an iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, or Apple TV, the WWDC keynote is highly relevant because it give you a sneak peek at the new software coming to your devices later in the year.

How to attend WWDC

WWDC is primarily a digital event with all registered Apple developers able to get online access to session videos, slides, and sample code throughout the week.

There is usually an in-person event at Apple Park though. If you want to attend WWDC and the keynote in person you have to enter a lottery and apply for a ticket to attend the keynote alongside other developers. There is a lot of competition for those tickets, which are randomly selected from those who apply and aren’t transferable. The good news is that tickets are free, at least.

To be in with a chance of attending, it is necessary to enter the lottery, for which you have to apply through Apple’s website. Eligibility is generally restricted to the following groups:

• Current members of the Apple Developer Program or Apple Developer Enterprise Program.
• Apple Entrepreneur Camp alumni.
• Swift Student Challenge winners (who are often included in a separate selection process, with notifications typically sent in May).

The lottery for tickets allocated for 2025 started at the end of March and those interested had to apply by the beginning of April. The lucky applicants were notified of their success in getting a ticket at the beginning of April.

Apple invites developers to participate in a series of classes, workshops, and sessions to learn about the system-wide changes coming to the major software platforms in the coming year so they can update their apps. Some lucky developers even get to watch the event live in person.

You can find out more about how to get tickets to WWDC in our FAQ. Apple will share additional conference information in advance of WWDC26 through the Apple Developer app.

Apple usually confirms the date for WWDC around the end of March when it allows developers to enter a lottery and apply for a ticket to attend the keynote. Those who qualify have until the beginning of April to apply for tickets. We explain how current Apple Developer Program members, Apple Developer Enterprise Program members and Swift Student Challenge winners are able to apply for free tickets below.

How much does WWDC cost to attend

The format of WWDC has shifted significantly in recent years. While it was once a paid event costing $1,599 with tickets that sold out instantly, the modern conference is primarily an online experience.

Even without a lottery win, all registered developers receive online access to session videos, sample code, and workshops throughout the week

When was WWDC last held

In recent years Apple has held WWDC in early June.

• WWDC 2025: June 9-13
• WWDC 2024: June 10-14
• WWDC 2023: June 5-9
• WWDC 2022: June 6-10
• WWDC 2021: June 7-11
• WWDC 2020: June 22-26
• WWDC 2019: June 3-7
• WWDC 2018: June 4-8

Apple has held a WWDC event every year since 1983. Over the past couple of decades WWDC has generally been held in June, with only one exception.

WWDC	October 1983	May 1995	June 2007	June 2019
	April 1984	May 1996	June 2008	June 2020 (online)
	May 1985	May 1997	June 2009	June 2021 (online)
	May 1986	May 1998	June 2010	June 2022
	May 1987	May 1999	June 2011	June 2023
	May 1988	May 2000	June 2012	June 2024
	May 1989	May 2001	June 2013	June 2025
	May 1990	May 2002	June 2014
	May 1991	June 2003	June 2015
	May 1992	June 2004	June 2016
	May 1993	June 2005	June 2017
	May 1994	August 2006	June 2018

For a broader view of the year’s plans, check out our guide to the new Apple products coming this year.

We’ll update this article regularly in the run-up to WWDC, so check back to see the latest news.