Apple Design & Future Devices
- Apple is set to unveil a new operating system featuring a "Liquid Glass" design at its annual Worldwide Developers Conference.This design emphasizes openness and aims to give screens...
- These upgrades arrive as the tech industry questions the long-term relevance of devices amid the rise of generative AI.
- Jony Ive, former Apple designer, has labeled smartphones and laptops as "legacy" devices, highlighting a shift toward AI-driven interactions.
Apple is doubling down on design, unveiling a “Liquid glass” OS at WWDC, but is it enough? The tech world questions the future of devices, as AI-driven interactions surge. Jony Ive calls current devices “legacy” amid a shift toward AI companions. Apple’s AI efforts are reportedly lagging behind design, creating a crucial moment for integration. Ive’s OpenAI partnership and the broader focus on generative AI highlight the evolving landscape. News Directory 3 reports on Apple’s challenge: to seamlessly integrate cutting-edge AI. Will design triumph over AI? Discover what’s next…
Apple’s Design Focus: Is It Enough in the Age of AI?
Updated June 08, 2025
Apple is set to unveil a new operating system featuring a “Liquid Glass” design at its annual Worldwide Developers Conference.This design emphasizes openness and aims to give screens a shimmering, glass-like appearance. This move precedes the anticipated “Glasswing” iPhone update in 2027, which could showcase curved glass on all sides.
These upgrades arrive as the tech industry questions the long-term relevance of devices amid the rise of generative AI. The ability to interact with technology through natural language is challenging customary interfaces. Some experts suggest that devices themselves may become less important as AI companions become more ambient and integrated into daily life.
Jony Ive, former Apple designer, has labeled smartphones and laptops as “legacy” devices, highlighting a shift toward AI-driven interactions. Apple SVP Eddy Cue has also suggested that iPhones might not be essential in the future. This viewpoint underscores the growing belief that the intelligence of AI will outweigh the aesthetic appeal of devices.
Early attempts to create AI-first devices, such as the Humane Pin and Rabbit R1, have struggled to gain traction. These products highlight the challenge of creating value without compelling AI capabilities. The success of future devices may hinge more on the quality of their AI than on their physical design.
Ive’s partnership with OpenAI signals a bet on accessing cutting-edge AI. However, some industry observers question the value of OpenAI’s $6.5 billion investment in Ive’s IO device company. The focus is shifting from hardware design to the underlying AI model that powers the device.
Apple’s emphasis on design at this year’s WWDC may reflect the company’s current strengths. With its AI development reportedly facing challenges, Apple is focusing on its established expertise in design and user experience. The company has reorganized its AI team in recent months.
Despite the buzz around AI-first devices, screens are likely to remain important for various activities, including viewing photos, watching videos, and making video calls. While AI continues to advance, it may encounter limitations on the path to becoming a fully integrated ambient assistant.
The focus on future AI devices and the “legacy” label applied to current devices indicate a growing consensus in Silicon Valley about the transformative potential of generative AI. The impact of AI will likely be felt on screens before it is indeed felt off them. Apple faces increasing pressure to integrate AI seamlessly into its operating systems.
What’s next
Apple needs to integrate artificial intelligence into its operating systems. The company’s AI efforts are flagging, and it’s had little to show in the year since it announced Apple Intelligence.