The standout detail from the leak is the potential move toward rounder app icons. Host Jon Prosser notes that while it’s unclear if these icons will adopt the fully circular style seen in visionOS—Apple’s software for the Vision Pro headset—they’ll depart from the current “squircle” shape. Intriguingly, the rounder design is said to be hidden by default in internal iOS 19 builds. Prosser describes a feature where long-pressing a squircle icon triggers a brief animation, revealing its rounder counterpart. This suggests Apple might be testing the waters, possibly keeping the change under wraps until the official unveiling at WWDC in June 2025.
The shift to rounder icons could align iOS more closely with the sleek, modern look of visionOS, which emphasizes translucency and depth. While some users might welcome the change as a fresh take, others may find it reminiscent of competing platforms like Android, sparking debate among Apple’s loyal fanbase.
Floating Tab Bar and Subtle Effects
Beyond icons, iOS 19 is rumored to introduce a pill-shaped, floating tab bar at the bottom of several built-in apps, including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple TV, Messages, and Phone. This design tweak aims to enhance navigation, making it more intuitive and visually distinct. In the search tab, an elongated search bar paired with a circular “return” button adds to the streamlined feel, offering a quick way to toggle back to the expanded tab bar.
The leak also hints at subtle lighting effects that contribute to a “glass-like” appearance. For instance, the Flashlight and Camera controls on the Lock Screen reportedly shimmer as the iPhone moves, adding a layer of dynamism to the interface. These touches suggest Apple is leaning into a more immersive, tactile experience, borrowing elements from visionOS to create a cohesive aesthetic across its ecosystem.
What This Means for Users
For tech users, these changes could mean a more engaging and visually appealing iPhone experience. The rounder icons and floating tab bar promise easier navigation and a modernized look, while the glassy effects could make everyday interactions feel more polished. However, the practical impact remains to be seen—will these updates improve usability or simply serve as eye candy? Apple’s focus on design over major functional shifts in this leak indicates a priority on aesthetics, though more significant features might still be revealed closer to launch.
The timing aligns with Apple’s typical schedule: a WWDC preview in June, followed by a September release alongside new iPhones. As of now, the first iOS 19 beta is expected to drop post-keynote on June 9, giving developers and early adopters a chance to test the waters.
A Step Toward Consistency
This redesign fits into broader rumors of Apple unifying its software platforms. Reports from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman and others suggest iOS 19, iPadOS 19, and macOS 16 will adopt visionOS-inspired elements like translucency and rounded buttons, aiming for a consistent look across devices. While not a complete overhaul on the scale of iOS 7, these updates could still mark a significant evolution, refreshing an interface that’s remained relatively stable in recent years.
For now, the leak offers a tantalizing glimpse into Apple’s plans. Whether the rounder icons stick or the floating tab bar becomes a staple, iOS 19 seems poised to blend innovation with familiarity—keeping users hooked without straying too far from what makes the iPhone feel like home.
