Apple sets June dates for WWDC26 and its next major software updates

The annual Apple Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC26) will take place June 8-12, setting the stage for what promises to be one of the company's most anticipated software events in years. It will mark the arrival of iOS 27, macOS 27 and more, according to an update Monday on the Apple Developer website. Held every summer, WWDC is Apple's marquee event for unveiling the next generation of its software platforms. For the millions of people who use iPhones, iPads, Macs, Apple Watches and Apple TVs, the conference signals the arrival of major new operating system versions. At WWDC26, that will include iOS 27, iPadOS 27, macOS 27, watchOS 13, tvOS 27 and visionOS 3. While the conference is officially aimed at developers, the software announcements affect every Apple user when the new operating systems roll out publicly in the fall. The event is online and free, with sessions available through the Apple Developer app, the Apple Developer website and Apple's YouTube channel. Anyone can follow along live, making WWDC as much a public spectacle as a developer gathering. Apple typically opens the week with a pre-recorded Keynote -- the big-picture consumer announcement. That's followed by the more technical Platforms State of the Union, and then days of in-depth video sessions led by Apple engineers and designers. For developers who want to experience the magic firsthand, Apple is offering a special in-person event at its Cupertino headquarters on Monday, June 8 -- the opening day of the conference. Attendees will watch the Keynote and Platforms State of the Union alongside fellow developers, meet with Apple experts in one-on-one and group labs, explore the campus and take part in special activities. Spots are limited and awarded by random selection. Applications are open to current Apple Developer Program and Apple Developer Enterprise Program members, as well as Swift Student Challenge winners from 2024 through 2026. Submissions will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. PT on Monday, March 30, with applicants notified of their status by the end of the day on Thursday, April 2. Swift Student Challenge Distinguished Winners get an automatic invitation to an extended experience. They can enjoy a three-day visit to Cupertino that includes the special event at Apple Park. Beyond the headline operating system releases, WWDC previews new developer tools, frameworks and APIs. They're the building blocks that third-party app makers use to bring new features to the apps you rely on every day. Given Apple's ongoing push with Apple Intelligence and its suite of on-device AI features, this year's conference is widely expected to bring significant advances. They potentially include deeper Siri integrations, expanded Writing Tools and new AI-powered capabilities across the system. WWDC26 begins June 8. Keep an eye on apple.com and the Apple Developer app for the latest updates as the event approaches.