There are rumors circulating that the design aesthetic for iOS 7 may be totally different from what we’re used to. Jonathan Ive took over for software last October, not just hardware. He’s apparently not a fan of the current iOS design and plans to overhaul the look and feel.
According to other news sources, Ive’s look will be “black, white and flat all over.” Textures that exist now – for example, linen and leather – will change to flat white and black colors. Apps will no longer have shine, shadows, or gloss.
Other apps like Maps, Mail, and Calendar will gain a white base for uniformity, each with its own color scheme. Game Center will lose its green felt and Newsstand will have the wooden shelves removed.
iOS 7 will be unveiled, most likely, at WWDC 2013 (starting June 13).
The problem Apple will have to balance is keeping enough familiarity that hundreds of millions of people know and love while introducing something fresh and new without being overwhelming.
People will either love or hate the new look. There are people who will say the new iOS looks like Windows 8 design elements, or even Android. Some may even say Apple has lost its risk-taking ability and innovation.
Main image courtesy of Simply Zesty.