iOS 19 has sparked a debate between an analyst and a leaker, both claiming their authority over the subject. It was previously noted by Jon Prosser that Apple would not change the shape of the app icons on the iPhone, but it appears that there was more to the story. Mark Gurman, on the flip side, claimed that iOS 19 will be a bigger update than originally anticipated, and it will bring tweaked app icons later this year. Well, Prosser has shared an update to the story, and it seems Apple will indeed make changes to app icons in iOS 19.
Leaker reveals Apple’s secret design overhaul in iOS 19, featuring a floating pill-shaped tab bar, translucent menus, and customizable app icons
We have previously reported that app icons in iOS 19 would be the same as the current iteration, but Jon Prosser rectified his earlier claims in his new video on his Front Page Tech YouTube channel. He also shared a handful of additional details related to the platform, which includes a new floating tab bar and a more transparent glass-like look, similar to visionOS.
Prosser showed iOS 19 in detail, covering various aspects of the operating system, but he and his team re-created the renders of iOS 19 to protect his sources. As can be seen, iOS 19 is expected to add a translucent effect for major portions of the interface, including buttons, menus, notifications, and much more. The toggle switch is tweaked as well, which is a bit more squared-off and slimmer instead of round. However, the major visual difference is the rounded app icons.
Prosser rectified his prior claim that app icons will be the same as the current version, but he now states that the company will give users the option to make app icons slightly more round. Take note that the icons will not be completely round similar to how icons are in visionOS. However, it is still a notable change and gives a fresh look to the Home Screen. The option is hidden by default, possibly because Apple does not want to reveal one of the biggest changes ahead of time.
Another major addition will be the new floating pill-shaped tab bar on the bottom of the interface. It will appear everywhere in the app that supports the option, and Prosser shows the renders in the App Store, Apple Music, and Apple TV, as well as the Messages and the Phone app. We believe that third-party apps will also be able to utilize it with their custom set of options. The pill-shaped tab bar is pretty similar to Dynamic Island, and it can be seen that the company has also taken inspiration from its animations.
Lastly, Apple has adopted rounded corners for some elements, including the Haptic Touch menus, which appear when you long-press an app icon. The same approach has also been applied to the Volume and display brightness sliders in the Control Center. The company has also made tweaks to the Messages app with subtle lighting effects for some elements, which give it a glass-like appearance. You can check out the video below for more details.
We will share additional details on iOS 19 as soon as further information is available. Moreover, it remains to be seen how Mark Gurman reacts to the new renders and if he approves or disapproves of the latest design changes. Apple will announce iOS 19 on June 9 at its WWDC 2025 event, so do stick around for more details.
