While this year's systems haven't even been officially unveiled yet, Apple has already begun working internally on the next generation: iOS 28, iPadOS 28, and macOS 28 are already in an early stage of development. As usual, the upcoming versions have internal code names – and these combine to form a curious word.
That Apple plans far in advance is nothing new. As a manufacturer of both operating systems and hardware, the company needs long lead times to mature its software – similar to its iPhone and Mac lines. While the current focus is on the systems expected at WWDC 2026, the next generation but one is already underway behind the scenes. This information comes from the latest "Power On" newsletter by Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman.
Development of the 2027 systems is already underway
According to Gurman, Apple has already begun work on the 2027 updates for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and its other operating systems. The responsible software teams are reportedly in the phase where individual features, apps, and improvements are being developed.
The step of merging all these building blocks into complete, coherent systems, however, is still pending. There is no time pressure: Apple will present the new versions to developers at WWDC 2027 in about a year. By comparison, the imminent generation surrounding the completely revamped Siri in iOS 27 is about to make its grand debut.
From "Rizz" to "Boppy": the internal code names
As with previous versions, Apple assigns internal code names. According to Gurman, iOS 28 and iPadOS 28 are codenamed "Bell," while macOS 28 is called "Poppy." Employees have created a portmanteau of these two terms and simply refer to the 2027 versions as "Boppy."
This game isn't new. The current generation already had similar names: iOS 27 and iPadOS 27 were internally called "Rave," while macOS 27 was "Fizz"—resulting in the combination "Rizz."
There's still plenty of time until WWDC 2027
Naturally, specific functions or innovations cannot yet be derived from this early stage of development – the scope and focus of the systems are likely to change considerably before their official unveiling. The fact that Apple is already working on the 2027 versions is primarily evidence of the long lead times the company plans for.
Things will get really interesting much later. First up are this year's systems, the next big stage – the generation after that will remain largely a codename until WWDC 2027. (Image: Shutterstock / Zakharchuk)
- Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini are expected to arrive in the fall
- Apple Glasses: Market launch not until the end of 2027
- New Beats headphones appear on Lamine Yamal
- Apple Music: Is a cheaper subscription on the horizon?
- iPhone 18 Pro: New camera costs Apple 50 percent more
- iPhone 18 Pro: Four colors shown for the first time on a dummy
- Apple and Google: New details about the AI technology behind Siri
- iOS 27: Leak reveals the new Siri and a redesigned camera app
- Black Vision Pro components reappear online
- Android manufacturers want to copy Apple's split launch
- Apple Watch: Glucose project gets a new project leader
- iOS 27: The WWDC logo reveals the final Siri colors
- Titanium returns to the iPhone Pro? A second leaker dampens expectations
- iPhone Ultra: New production problems in pre-production
- watchOS 27 improves heart rate measurement – AI health coach delayed
- iOS 27 raises Genmoji and Image Playground to a new level of quality
- iOS 27 opens up to Google Cast and other streaming protocols
- iOS 27 cleans up the AirPods menu in Settings
- iPhone 18 Pro: Clear case fix and possible new colors
- iPhone 2027: Prototype with fully curved display undergoing testing
