iOS empty, error, loading, success

Every non-content state must be active: it names the situation and offers one next move. Apply ios-senior-ui-polish and ios-microcopy.

Empty — four patterns

Pick one. Do not show a grey void and “No data.”

Pattern	When	Move
Teach	The product has a gesture or command to learn	Inline hint in the canvas (slash menu, swipe row) — not a modal tour
Preload	An empty workspace looks broken	Sample items the user can poke (clearly marked as examples if needed)
Invite	Starting from nothing is honest	Calm illustration or SF Symbol + one CTA + why it matters
Delight	Personality is the product	Empty can joke; money/health/payroll stays warm words, no mascot

Copy: “Nothing here yet” beats “No items to display.” Always one start action (“Create your first project — takes a minute”).