Am I Overthinking macOS Golden Gate? Maybe.

At WWDC 2026, Apple introduced beta versions of several new operating systems, including iOS 27, macOS 27 (Golden Gate), iPadOS 27, tvOS 27, visionOS 27, and watchOS 27.

What surprised me was that just 9-10 hours after the event ended, Vietnamese social media was flooded with videos and posts about experiencing the iOS 27 beta (for example in the video below). Unlike previous years, this year the community seems much more enthusiastic about Apple's new updates.

This video from Ngô Đức Duy in Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@duyyy.real.channel

I was also interested in the new features, but what attracted me more was the name macOS Golden Gate.

Golden Gate is one of California's most famous landmarks. It's the name of the iconic bridge connecting the two shores of San Francisco Bay. And that's what makes me wonder:

Is it an interesting coincidence that WWDC 2026 could also be seen as marking a transitional period for Apple?

Of course, Apple has long had a tradition of naming macOS after famous landmarks in California. So, Golden Gate could very well be just the next name on that list.

But sometimes a name carries more meaning than we think.

Looking back at WWDC 2026, I see Apple facing one of the biggest turning points in years. AI has become central to the entire ecosystem. Siri is being rebuilt, Apple Intelligence continues to expand, and Apple's platforms are becoming increasingly interconnected.

If the information about Tim Cook stepping down as CEO in the near future is accurate and John Ternus is indeed his successor, he will be taking over more than just a tech company. He will be taking over an Apple that is entering the AI era.

That's why I find the name Golden Gate so interesting. From the image of a bridge to a gate. To a symbol of connection and transition. Maybe I'm overthinking the name of an operating system. Or maybe Apple accidentally chose a perfect name for the present moment.