Remember when new iOS versions used to bring big redesigns? iOS 7, I’m talking to you. Even though we hear rumors every year about another major revamp, it’s safe to say those days are behind us. One recent app issue really shows why.
Sonos redesign debacle is a cautionary tale
In case you haven’t noticed, Sonos has been having a rough time lately.
They recently replaced their CEO after months of trying to fix the mess they made in 2024—launching a major app redesign. The new Sonos app, which came out in April, sparked a flood of customer complaints and bad press that’s lingered all year.
It’s a perfect example of why Apple’s days of major iOS revamps are behind us.
If the new Sonos app had launched back in the company’s early days, I’m pretty sure it would’ve been fine. Even with the same issues, the smaller, more dedicated user base would’ve adapted, or Sonos would’ve fixed things quickly and it wouldn’t have turned into such a disaster.
The story with iOS is pretty similar.
iPhone’s success has made big change especially risky
Back when the iPhone was still growing in popularity, Apple could get away with major redesigns because its user base was smaller and more tech-savvy.
But now, the iPhone is a cornerstone of daily life, with hundreds of millions of users, each with different levels of tech knowledge.
If Apple made huge changes to how iOS looks and works, the backlash could be overwhelming. Even if the redesign was seen as an improvement by many, with such a large user base, there’s always going to be a loud group opposing it.
The key isn’t to let iOS get stale, and Apple knows that. Instead, their approach has been to update iOS more gradually, focusing on changes app by app.
Take iOS 18, for example—the changes to the Photos app sparked a lot of controversy and led to fixes in later updates. But since it was just one app, the fallout was manageable.
A full iOS overhaul? That would be a massive risk for Apple.
As much as I love the idea of a big iOS 7-style redesign (and maybe you do too), many iPhone users who aren’t as keen on change could see it as a nightmare.
The Sonos mess is a perfect warning for Apple and any tech company with a large, loyal user base.
It also means we might have to settle for smaller, more gradual iOS updates.
What do you think? Should Apple go for a full iOS redesign, or stick to smaller changes? Let us know in the comments.
