WWDC 2015 Predictions

WWDC 2015 Predictions

Apple's Worldwide Developer's Conference is an annual media event where the Cuppertino-based company introduces new products and gives the public a glimpse inside the mysterious world of Apple. If Apple follows what they have done in years past, when this years WWDC keynote starts, it will open with a video of developers and the apps they create. Once the video ends, Apple CEO Tim Cook will walk on stage and brief the audience on some updates then introduce the new products and services for 2015.

WWDC 2015

This year, WWDC begins June 8 and runs for a week. During WWDC, Apple hosts a keynote where they introduce the next versions of OS X and iOS. Past WWDC keynotes included new products, such as the redesigned Mac Pro in 2013. This year, we will probably see the next versions of OS X, iOS and possibly a new Apple TV box - with the chances of some other new products and services.

OS X

Apple's desktop operating system, OS X, has been around for over a decade. If Apple continues with their current naming scheme then this next version will be OS X 10.11. Name-wise, OS X has used the names of large cats, like OS X 10.4 Tiger and OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard. In 2013, Apple changed it up and called OS X 10.9 Mavericks, starting the naming scheme with places in California. Last year at WWDC 2014, Apple continued their new naming scheme with OS X 10.10 Yosemite. This year we will probably see the next version named after a place in California.

The next version of OS X will probably focus more on the ability to talk to user's iOS devices and other Macs using iCloud. Over the past years, Apple has created more synchronization within iCloud, allowing users to easily move from one device to another. Apple changed the overall design last year with OS X Yosemite. We will probably see a few design changes, but the new OS X will most likely stay similar to OS X Yosemite. If Apple follows the pricing strategy of the past two operating systems, the next OS X will be a free upgrade to eligible machines. Looking at the past, Apple will most likely allow developers to beta test the new version to allow their apps to be compatible before the usual public launch in fall. The ability for users to sign up for a public beta is also expected, as Apple started that last year.

iOS 9

iOS is the operating system for iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch. This year at WWDC, we should expect to see the next version - iOS 9. It should include some new features for users along with bug fixes and speed enhancements. The Maps and Music apps are expected to receive some updates. For Music, rumors suggest that Apple will introduce enhancements to iTunes Radio or possibly a revamp of the Beats Audio app integrated within the Music app. The beta of the new iOS is usually only available to registered developers, although there is a chance that Apple will create a public beta. The full public launch will most likely be in the fall, if Apple continues with their past release trends.

Apple TV

The current Apple TV has not received a major update since March of 2012. Rumors suggest that Apple is ready to introduce a new Apple TV box that could include a new streaming service aimed at replacing user's current cable or satellite subscription. The ability for developers to create apps for the Apple TV has been rumored as well. During the March 2015 media event, Apple TV saw a price drop from $99 to $69. The price of a new Apple TV is unclear, as Apple could retain the current Apple TV as an entry level model in the Apple TV lineup.

Apple Watch

Apple Watch is Apple's newest product and there is a good chance that Apple will reserve some stage time for it at WWDC. The new versions of OS X and iOS will likely feature more integration with Apple Watch.

Other Possibilities

There are a few other products that could be updated at WWDC. One such product is the Thunderbolt Display. The Thunderbolt Display has not received an update since the Thunderbolt port arrived in 2011. Since the Thunderbolt Display is physically thicker than the current iMacs, it would make sense to release an updated, thinner display. The choice of two different sizes would be nice as well, instead of just a 27-inch. A 21.5-inch Thunderbolt Display to go along nicely with the 21.5-inch iMac would be a sensible update.

The Mac Pro has also not received a refresh since 2013. Being that the Mac Pro is targeted towards the power users of the Apple world, an updated Mac Pro with increased specs would be great for users that need a lot of computing power.

Unlikely Possibilities

The iPod line is unlikely to be refreshed this year at WWDC. The iPods are a decreasing market for Apple, since other devices such as iPhone and iPad seem to eliminate the need for a separate music devices.

The MacBook line has been updated recently. The only change that could be seen would be for the 13-inch MacBook Pro (without Retina Display). This model has not been updated since WWDC 2012, but it has stayed on the market since then. Either Apple will update the specs of this model, lower the price, leave it alone or completely kill it off.


This WWDC will be an exciting event with the possibilities of seeing the next versions of OS X and iOS, new Apple Watch software, new Apple TV and possibly a refreshed Mac Pro and Thunderbolt Display. If Apple continues with past traditions, the keynote on June 8 will start at 10:00 AM and offer a live stream.