Front Page Tech is back with a new video offering an in-depth look at the rumored design changes coming in iOS 19. The video features re-created renders of the software, allegedly based on real footage provided by sources within Apple.
One of the key design updates expected in iOS 19 is a more glass-like, visionOS-inspired aesthetic. This includes added translucency for user interface elements such as buttons, menus, and notifications, creating a sleeker and more modern look. However, the most notable change revealed today is the potential for rounder app icons. Jon Prosser, the host of Front Page Tech, believes that iOS 19 may feature these rounder icons, though it’s still unclear whether they will be fully circular like those seen on visionOS.
In internal iOS 19 builds, these rounder icons are said to be hidden by default. A long press on a regular squircle-shaped app icon triggers an animation that switches it to the rounder design. This suggests Apple may be keeping this design change under wraps until iOS 19 is officially unveiled at WWDC in June.
Another change hinted at in the video is the introduction of a pill-shaped tab bar in several built-in apps, including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple TV, Messages, and Phone apps. The search tab now features an elongated search bar, accompanied by a circular button that, when tapped, brings back the full tab bar. The video also showcases a new animation when switching between tabs within the bar.
In the Messages app, the search bar appears to be persistent, remaining visible throughout use. Furthermore, the renders show Apple adopting more rounded corners for various elements, such as the Haptic Touch menus that appear when you long press an app icon, as well as the volume and brightness sliders in Control Center. Even permission prompts for camera and microphone access are said to have a refreshed design.
Prosser had earlier shared mockups of the iOS 19 Camera app, and it seems the design updates will extend to other apps as well. The Settings app is said to have slimmer toggles, and the default keyboard may feature some changes too.
Lastly, iOS 19 is rumored to add subtle lighting effects to some elements, contributing to the glass-like aesthetic. For example, the default Flashlight and Camera controls at the bottom of the Lock Screen are expected to shimmer as you move the device, adding a dynamic touch.
The first beta of iOS 19 is expected to be released shortly after the WWDC keynote on June 9, with the public release set for September.