Apple Refreshes GarageBand with New Icon and Stability Enhancements
Apple has recently rolled out an update for GarageBand on iOS, marking the first significant change to the app in over a year. This update, version 2.3.18, primarily focuses on stability improvements and bug fixes, as noted in the App Store release notes. However, users will immediately notice a striking transformation in the app’s iconography.
The previous icon, characterized by a white guitar silhouette set against an orange starburst background, has been replaced. The new design features a realistic depiction of a Gibson ES-style guitar with sunburst orange hues on a black backdrop. This change not only modernizes the app’s visual identity but also aligns it with Apple’s evolving design language.
This update is particularly noteworthy given Apple’s infrequent modifications to GarageBand. The last major update was over a year ago, making this refresh a significant event for users. The introduction of the new icon may also hint at forthcoming updates to other Apple applications, suggesting a broader shift in the company’s app aesthetics.
In contrast, the iWork suite—comprising Pages, Numbers, and Keynote—has yet to receive updates compatible with iOS 26. The most recent enhancements to iWork were introduced in April 2025, with version 14.4 bringing features like Writing Tools and improved compatibility with Apple Intelligence. Users are eagerly anticipating similar updates to align iWork with the latest iOS advancements.
For GarageBand enthusiasts, this update not only enhances the app’s stability but also offers a refreshed visual experience, reflecting Apple’s commitment to both functionality and design.
