Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025 kicks off on Monday, June 9, at 10 a.m. PT, running through June 13. As usual, the keynote will be live-streamed on YouTube and Apple’s own platforms, with a select group of developers and press attending an in-person event at Apple Park. But this year, WWDC is shaping up to be more than just another developer conference—it’s a pivotal moment for Apple’s software future.
A Bold Redesign Across Every OS
Apple is preparing its most significant visual overhaul in over a decade, internally codenamed “Solarium.” Inspired by visionOS, the interface for Apple Vision Pro, this redesign brings a clean, immersive aesthetic across all platforms—iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS. Expect subtle depth effects, glassy transparency, rounded UI elements, and more consistent iconography that bridges mobile and spatial computing.
What makes this overhaul especially notable is Apple’s shift to a year-based naming system. Gone are the sequential versions like iOS 19 or macOS 15. Starting this year, each platform will align with the calendar year, debuting as iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26 (reportedly named “Tahoe”), and so on. This not only brings Apple in line with Microsoft’s and Google’s naming strategies but also signals a broader push for a unified ecosystem identity.
iOS 26: Apple Leans Into AI and Gaming
iOS 26 isn’t just a visual update—it’s packed with thoughtful features aimed at modernizing the iPhone experience:
- Dedicated Gaming Hub: Apple is reportedly launching a new gaming app designed to centralize your game library, track achievements, view leaderboards, and connect with friends—similar to Steam or Xbox Game Pass interfaces. This comes as Apple ramps up gaming ambitions on iOS, especially with M-series chips powering iPads and Macs.
- eSIM Flexibility: One of the biggest quality-of-life updates is the ability to transfer eSIMs between iPhones and Android devices. This is a major leap toward simplifying carrier switching and international travel—two pain points Apple has lagged behind Android on.
- AI-Powered Battery Management: Similar to Android’s Adaptive Battery, Apple is integrating AI to learn your charging habits and usage patterns, helping extend battery health and optimize performance dynamically.
- Health & Siri Upgrades: Siri will benefit from improved contextual awareness and more natural language understanding, while the Health app is expected to integrate generative AI for wellness tracking and personalized coaching insights—something Apple’s been gradually moving toward since 2023.
Apple Intelligence: From Flashy to Foundational
After last year’s flashy “Apple Intelligence” branding rollout, WWDC 2025 will focus on grounding those innovations into daily workflows.
- Third-Party AI Access: Apple is poised to open its on-device AI foundation models to developers. This means apps can now leverage powerful language models for summarization, generation, and recommendations without sending data to the cloud—emphasizing Apple’s privacy-first approach.
- More Refined Tools: Image Playground, Genmoji, and AI-enhanced writing tools are expected to expand to additional apps and OS functions, bringing deeper creativity and productivity tools natively to users.
- Siri Still a Work-in-Progress: While incremental Siri improvements are coming—better context handling, smarter replies, and integration with third-party apps—the full AI-powered revamp (akin to ChatGPT-level assistants) is still in internal development and likely won’t debut until 2026.
- Translate & AirPods Integration: A rumored feature allows real-time translation via AirPods, leveraging Siri and the Translate app—positioning Apple to compete with Google Pixel Buds’ interpreter mode.
What About Hardware?
Don’t expect big hardware reveals at WWDC 2025. Apple typically reserves those for its fall events. However, reports suggest a new HomePod with a display is still on track for later this year—likely in September or October. It could serve as a control center for Apple’s smart home ambitions, blending Siri, widgets, and Apple TV functionality in one unit.
That said, don’t rule out surprise previews—Apple has occasionally teased upcoming devices like Vision Pro or Apple Silicon transitions during WWDC to give developers early access to tools.
WWDC 2025 isn’t about shock value—it’s about maturity and cohesion. With “Solarium,” Apple is taking a deliberate step toward unifying its platforms under a single design language, while its AI strategy continues to emphasize privacy, on-device performance, and seamless integration. Instead of chasing flashy generative AI demos, Apple’s betting on making your everyday apps smarter, your battery last longer, and your devices feel more connected.
For developers and power users alike, this may be the most foundational WWDC since the launch of Swift or the transition to Apple Silicon.
When Is The Best Time to Buy Apple Products
Buying Apple products at the right time can save you money and get you the latest technology. Many shoppers don’t realize that Apple follows fairly predictable patterns for product releases and price drops. Waiting for specific times of year like back-to-school season, Black Friday, or right after new product announcements can help you avoid paying full price for iPhones, MacBooks, and other Apple devices.
Apple’s premium products rarely see deep discounts directly from the company, but there are strategic windows when better deals become available. Understanding these timing patterns helps you make smarter purchasing decisions. Whether you’re looking for a new MacBook, iPad, or Apple Watch, a little patience and planning can stretch your tech budget further.
1: Buy iPhone in September
September is typically the best time to buy an iPhone. Apple has established a regular pattern of announcing new iPhone models during its fall event, usually held in September each year.
When you purchase right after the launch, you’ll get the latest technology with the longest potential lifespan before the next generation arrives. The newest features, improved cameras, and better performance make September purchases appealing for tech enthusiasts.
If you want the very latest model, buying in September or October ensures you don’t invest in technology that will be outdated within a few weeks. This timing helps you maximize the value of your purchase.
Third-party retailers sometimes offer special promotions around launch time to attract customers excited about the new models. You might find trade-in deals or carrier promotions that aren’t available at other times of the year.
The deals tend to get worse over time until the next September release, according to Reddit users. This contradicts the common assumption that prices drop significantly a few months after release.
When Apple introduces new models, they typically discontinue certain older versions while reducing prices on others. This creates a clear picture of the entire iPhone lineup and helps you make an informed decision.
Remember that pre-orders usually open shortly after the announcement, with devices shipping a week or two later. Setting a calendar reminder for Apple’s September event will help you stay ahead of the curve.
2: Purchase MacBook during Black Friday
Black Friday offers one of the best opportunities to buy a MacBook at a discounted price. Apple products rarely go on sale, which makes this shopping holiday especially valuable for those looking to save money on a new laptop.
During Black Friday, you can find MacBooks discounted at major retailers like Amazon and Best Buy. These sales often include the latest models, giving you a chance to get current technology for less money.
The savings can be substantial. For example, some MacBook Air M3 models have been priced as low as $850 during Black Friday sales, representing significant discounts from their regular prices.
Black Friday is particularly good timing if you’re interested in recently released Mac models. The holiday shopping season typically features initial sales on fall Mac releases, making it an excellent time to purchase the latest technology.
You don’t necessarily need to shop on Black Friday itself. The sales often begin before Thanksgiving and may extend through Cyber Monday, giving you a longer window to make your purchase decision.
Many tech experts agree that Black Friday is an excellent time to buy a MacBook, especially since these premium products typically come with premium prices.
Remember to compare prices across different retailers during this time, as the specific discounts may vary from store to store.
3: Get iPad on Prime Day
Prime Day has become one of the best times to purchase an iPad for significant savings. The annual sale typically runs in July, offering discounts of up to 40% on various Apple tablets.
If you’re planning to buy a new iPad, waiting for Prime Day could save you substantial money. According to shopping experts, July is among the cheapest times of the year to purchase a new generation iPad, alongside October and November.
Amazon’s event usually begins at 12:01 a.m. PDT on the first day and runs through 11:59 p.m. PDT on the second day. You’ll find deals on multiple iPad models, from the standard version to the Air and Pro variants.
What makes Prime Day special for Apple products? While Apple rarely offers direct discounts, Amazon frequently includes iPads in their Prime Day promotions. You can find both the latest models and previous generations with price cuts.
For students heading back to school, Prime Day presents an excellent opportunity. It’s considered the best mid-year sale for saving on devices you might need for the upcoming semester.
Some early iPad deals may appear even before the official Prime Day begins. Keep an eye out for pre-Prime Day offers that sometimes emerge a few days before the main event.
4: Shop for AirPods in July
July is an excellent time to shop for Apple AirPods due to Amazon Prime Day. This major sales event typically occurs in mid-July and offers significant discounts on Apple products.
During Prime Day, you can often find AirPods at some of their lowest prices of the year. Retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy frequently offer competitive deals to match the Prime Day excitement.
You don’t need to wait until Black Friday to score great AirPods deals. July sales can match or sometimes even beat those holiday discounts, giving you a chance to upgrade your audio experience without waiting until the end of the year.
Keep an eye on all major electronics retailers during this period. Even if you don’t have an Amazon Prime membership, other stores often run competing sales to attract customers during the Prime Day window.
Price tracking tools can help you determine if the July discounts represent true savings. Compare current sale prices to the usual retail price to ensure you’re getting a genuine bargain on your AirPods purchase.
The timing works well if you need new earbuds for summer travel or outdoor activities. By shopping in July, you can enjoy your new AirPods throughout the remainder of the summer season.
5: Get An Apple Watch After Apple Event
Apple Watch models typically launch in September at Apple’s annual fall event. This timing has been consistent for several years, making it predictable for buyers planning their purchase.
If you want the latest Apple Watch, buying shortly after the fall event ensures you get the newest features and technology. New models usually become available for pre-order immediately after the announcement.
Physical Apple stores and major retailers will stock the new products on launch day. If you want to guarantee getting your watch on release day, you can either pre-order online or visit a store early on launch day.
Be aware that the newest models rarely see discounts in the first few months after release. Apple rarely offers significant price drops on new products shortly after their introduction.
Avoid purchasing an Apple Watch in July or August. This is right before new models are announced, making it not a good time to buy unless you find an exceptional clearance deal.
If you don’t need the very latest features, you might find good deals on the previous generation models immediately after the new ones are announced. Retailers often discount older inventory to make room for new stock.
Remember to check both online and in-store options for the best availability. Popular configurations can sell out quickly after a new release.
6: Get A Mac Mini during Cyber Monday
The Mac Mini offers powerful computing in a compact package, making it a smart investment during holiday sales. Cyber Monday specifically brings some of the best deals on this Apple desktop.
The 2023 Mac Mini model often sees discounts of around 22% during Cyber Monday sales. This saves you a significant amount on this powerful yet small desktop computer that can handle your daily tasks efficiently.
Looking ahead to Cyber Monday 2025, you can expect similar or better deals on the newer models, including the M4 Mac Mini. Apple typically maintains consistent discount patterns for their desktop computers during major shopping events.
When shopping for a Mac Mini on Cyber Monday, check multiple retailers. Apple’s official store might offer gift cards with purchase, while third-party sellers often provide direct discounts.
You should set price alerts now to track Mac Mini prices as we approach the holiday season. This helps you recognize a truly good deal when Cyber Monday arrives.
Consider your timing carefully. If you need a Mac Mini immediately, waiting until late November might not be practical. However, if you can wait, the Cyber Monday savings are typically worth it.
Remember to check the specifications before purchasing. Even with a discount, you want to ensure you’re getting the right processor, memory, and storage configuration for your needs.
7: Find The Best Mac Pro deals post-Apple announcement
Apple typically reveals new Mac Pro models during their major announcement events. These high-end machines are designed for professionals who need serious computing power.
After a new Mac Pro is announced, prices on previous models often drop. Retailers may offer significant discounts to clear inventory before new models arrive in stores.
You can find these deals both at Apple’s official refurbished store and at authorized retailers. The savings can be substantial on these premium devices.
Watch for price drops within 2-4 weeks following a new Mac Pro announcement. This timing gives you the best opportunity to purchase the previous generation at reduced prices.
Unlike other Apple products, Mac Pros rarely receive discounts when they’re new. Your best option is to target the previous model after a new announcement.
If you don’t need the absolute latest technology, this approach can save you thousands of dollars. The previous generation Mac Pro will still offer excellent performance for most professional workflows.
Remember to check both online and physical stores. Sometimes brick-and-mortar locations offer exclusive clearance deals that aren’t advertised online.
Compare prices across multiple retailers to ensure you’re getting the best possible deal. Even small percentage discounts can translate to significant dollar savings on these premium machines.
8: Order iPhone accessories in October
October is a strategic time to buy iPhone accessories. After Apple’s September or October iPhone announcements, the market sees a surge in new accessories designed for the latest models.
You’ll find retailers clearing out inventory for older iPhone models. This creates opportunities to get cases, chargers, and screen protectors at reduced prices if you’re using a previous generation iPhone.
Many accessory makers time their new product launches to coincide with Apple’s releases. By October, these products are typically available and sometimes offered with introductory pricing to attract early adopters.
The early Black Friday sales often begin in October. Retailers start their holiday promotions earlier each year, giving you access to discounts on popular accessories before the main shopping rush.
You can take advantage of price-protection guarantees during this period. If prices drop further in November, many retailers will refund you the difference if you’ve purchased in October.
Online marketplaces frequently offer bundle deals on accessories in October. This timing allows you to get your accessories before the holiday shipping delays begin.
Remember that waiting until December may limit your options. Popular accessories often sell out as the holiday season progresses, so October provides the ideal balance of good selection and reasonable pricing.
9: Find Apple TV offers around Back to School season
Apple TV devices rarely see major discounts, but the Back to School season offers a unique opportunity to save. This period typically runs from July through September, just before students return to classrooms.
During this time, Apple often includes Apple TV in their education promotions. You might find special education pricing that can save you money on these streaming devices.
While Apple itself doesn’t run many sales, they sometimes offer gift cards with Apple TV purchases during their Back to School promotions. These gift cards can be used toward other Apple products or services you might need.
Retailers like Best Buy and Amazon frequently match or beat Apple’s Back to School offers. Keep an eye on these stores during late summer for competitive Apple TV deals.
The best discounts typically appear in August when retailers are eager to attract student shoppers. You don’t always need to be a student to take advantage of these general retail promotions.
If you miss the Back to School window, don’t worry. You can also find good Apple TV deals during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, which offer another excellent opportunity to save.
Consider setting price alerts on shopping websites to notify you when Apple TV prices drop during these seasonal promotions. This ensures you’ll catch the best deals without constant checking.
10: The Best iMac discounts Come in early November
Early November is a strategic time to shop for an iMac. As retailers prepare for the holiday shopping season, they often begin rolling out early discounts on Apple products.
Keep an eye on major electronics retailers who typically start their pre-Black Friday promotions during this time. You might find significant price drops on current iMac models.
Apple authorized resellers like Best Buy and Amazon frequently offer better deals than the Apple Store itself. Black Friday and Cyber Monday remain excellent opportunities for Apple discounts.
Setting price alerts on shopping comparison websites can help you track iMac prices as they begin to drop in early November. This gives you an advantage over shoppers who wait until Black Friday itself.
University students and educators should check if educational discounts combine with these early November promotions for even greater savings. Many retailers offer additional student discounts on top of seasonal sales.
Consider previous generation iMac models for the deepest discounts. When retailers clear inventory for newer models, you can find substantial savings on slightly older but still powerful machines.
If you’re flexible on specifications, open-box or certified refurbished iMacs often see additional price cuts during early November sales. These models typically include the same warranty as new units.
Understanding Apple Product Release Cycles
Apple follows predictable patterns for releasing new products. Knowing these patterns can help you make smarter buying decisions and avoid purchasing just before a new model launches.
Annual Release Trends
Apple typically releases new iPhones in September each year. This has been a consistent pattern that you can plan your purchases around. The MacRumors Buyer’s Guide is a helpful tool that tracks these cycles.
Macs and iPads have less rigid schedules but still follow some patterns. MacBooks often get updated in the spring or at WWDC in June. iPad updates frequently happen in March or October.
Apple Watches usually arrive alongside new iPhones in September. AirPods and other accessories have more variable release schedules.
The visualization of Apple’s product release patterns shows that certain months have historically been busier for specific product lines. This knowledge helps you time your purchase correctly.
Impact of Seasonal Events
Black Friday and Cyber Monday offer the best discounts on Apple products. These sales events can save you significant money without waiting for new models.
Apple’s Back to School promotion (June-September) includes free AirPods or gift cards with Mac or iPad purchases for students. This makes summer an excellent time for educational purchases.
The weeks following a new product release often mean discounts on previous models. Retailers clear inventory, and Apple often reduces prices on older versions.
You’ll find the best deals from authorized retailers rather than Apple directly. Stores like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart frequently offer better discounts than the Apple Store, especially during major shopping events.
Analyzing Pricing Trends
Understanding when Apple products go on sale can help you save a significant amount of money. Apple’s pricing strategies follow specific patterns that smart shoppers can leverage to their advantage.
Historical Price Drops
Apple rarely offers direct discounts on their products, but prices do follow predictable patterns. New iPhone models typically launch in September, causing previous generation prices to drop by $100 or more. This makes late September an excellent time to purchase last year’s model.
Mac computers see price reductions of 10-15% after new versions are announced. These announcements often happen during Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June or at special events in October and November.
iPads follow a less consistent schedule, with updates happening throughout the year. However, prices for Apple products never drop below a specific level, which helps maintain their premium image.
If you track these product cycles, you can time your purchase just after new announcements for maximum savings.
Promotional Discounts and Events
Black Friday and Cyber Monday remain the best times to buy most Apple devices at discounted prices. During these sales, you can typically save:
- iPhones: $50-150 off
- MacBooks: $100-300 off
- iPads: $50-150 off
- Apple Watch: $30-100 off
Back-to-school promotions in July and August often include free AirPods or gift cards with Mac or iPad purchases. These promotions are available to students, teachers, and education staff.
Third-party retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart frequently offer better discounts than Apple’s own store. These retailers run sales throughout the year that can save you 15-25% on select Apple products.
Tax-free holidays in certain states can also provide additional savings when combined with other promotions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many shoppers have specific questions about timing their Apple purchases to get the best value. Here are answers to common questions about Apple product sales cycles and discount opportunities.
When do Apple products typically go on sale?
Apple rarely offers direct discounts on their website or in Apple Stores. Instead, Black Friday and Cyber Monday typically provide the best opportunities to find Apple products at discounted prices.
These sales usually come from authorized retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, and Walmart rather than Apple itself. You’ll often see discounts of 15-20% on select items during these major shopping events.
Are there any specific times of the year when Apple offers educational discounts for students?
Apple’s Back to School promotion typically runs from June through September. During this period, educational buyers can receive special pricing on Mac computers and iPads.
The promotion often includes free AirPods with eligible purchases, making July an excellent time for students to buy MacBooks. You’ll need valid student ID or proof of enrollment to qualify for these discounts.
What are the best months to purchase Apple devices?
September is ideal for iPhone purchases as Apple typically announces new models then, causing prices on previous generations to drop. For MacBooks, November (Black Friday) offers the deepest discounts of the year.
July works well for AirPods due to Back to School promotions and Prime Day sales. iPads often see good discounts during Amazon’s Prime Day events, usually held in July.
Does Apple participate in Black Friday or other holiday sales events?
Apple rarely offers significant discounts during Black Friday. Instead, they typically provide gift cards with purchases rather than direct price reductions.
However, retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart offer substantial discounts on Apple products during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. These authorized retailers often provide better deals than Apple’s own holiday offerings.
How often do retailers like Costco offer discounts on Apple products?
Warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam’s Club typically offer modest but consistent discounts on Apple products year-round. These discounts usually range from 5-10% off Apple’s standard pricing.
Special promotional periods happen quarterly at these retailers, with deeper discounts appearing during major shopping seasons. Membership is required to access these deals.
Are there particular sales events or periods when Apple deals are most advantageous?
Beyond Black Friday, several key shopping periods offer excellent Apple deals. Amazon Prime Day (usually in July) consistently features Apple product discounts, particularly on iPads and Apple Watches.
Back-to-school season (July-August) provides educational discounts and bonus items like free AirPods. Additionally, the weeks following new product announcements are ideal for purchasing previous-generation models at reduced prices.
