Apple officially unveiled iOS 27 , the latest version of its operating system for iPhones, at WWDC 2026. This update comes packed with new features, with a special focus on artificial intelligence and performance. The company confirmed that the list of compatible devices remains unchanged from iOS 26, which is a relief for users of older models.
Key new features include the new Siri AI, powered by Gemini, and a host of improvements to Apple Intelligence. Furthermore, special attention has been paid to optimizing overall performance, with apps opening up to 30% faster and AirDrop transfers up to 80% quicker. Below, we review everything you need to know about iOS 27.
Liquid Glass design and customization
The Liquid Glass design language, introduced in iOS 26, continues to be a key feature in iOS 27. Apple has added a new slider in the Appearance settings that allows users to adjust the transparency level of the glass elements. This way, users can choose a more opaque interface to improve readability or, conversely, a more translucent one to enhance the visual effect.
In addition, the glass effects on icons, Control Center buttons, and widgets have been enhanced, offering a more immersive experience. These changes aim to provide greater customization without sacrificing Apple's signature aesthetic.
Siri AI and Apple Intelligence
The big news in iOS 27 is the new Siri AI , now powered by Gemini, Google's artificial intelligence. This allows for more natural and accurate responses, as well as the ability to search for information within native apps like Messages, Mail, and Photos. Siri AI also has a standalone app, similar to ChatGPT, where you can converse with the assistant and access a history of conversations.
On the other hand, Apple Intelligence also receives significant improvements. Image editing becomes more powerful with features like quick object removal, AI-powered photo stretching, and the Reframe tool, which lets you change an image's angle in seconds. Image Playground, the image creation app, now generates more photorealistic designs in a variety of styles.
Compatibility and feature levels
iOS 27 is compatible with all iPhones that already supported iOS 26, meaning from the iPhone 11 onward, including the second and third generation iPhone SE. A total of 31 models will receive the update. However, not all features will be available on all devices.
Apple has divided the new features into three tiers. The first includes all compatible models, with the new design and performance improvements. The second tier, corresponding to Apple Intelligence , requires at least an iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max, or any iPhone 16 model or later. The third tier, reserved for Siri's most advanced features, is only available on the iPhone 17 Pro, Pro Max, and iPhone Air.
Furthermore, there is a significant restriction for users in Spain and the European Union: Siri AI will not be available at launch due to the Digital Markets Act. Apple has confirmed that the feature will initially be available only in English and will be expanded to other languages ​​and regions later.
Performance and connectivity improvements
Apple has placed a strong emphasis on performance in iOS 27. According to the company, apps open up to 30% faster and AirDrop transfers are up to 80% faster. The transition between Wi-Fi and cellular networks has also been optimized, addressing a problem that affected many users. Now the iPhone switches networks much more smoothly, preventing connection drops when leaving home or the office.
These improvements especially benefit older models, which will notice a performance boost in iOS 27 during daily use. Battery management has also been refined, although Apple hasn't provided specific details.
Release date and betas
The developer beta for iOS 27 has been available since its announcement in June, while the public beta will arrive in July. The final version is expected in the fall, likely in September, coinciding with the launch of the new iPhones. Apple typically releases the stable update in mid-September, although in some years it has been delayed until October.
If you want to try iOS 27 before its release, you can sign up for Apple's developer program or the public beta program. However, remember to back up your data before installing any beta version, as they may contain bugs.
In short, iOS 27 presents itself as a solid update that maintains compatibility with all previous-generation iPhones, introduces a much smarter Siri, and improves overall system performance. While the most advanced AI features will be limited to the latest models and certain regions, most users will be able to enjoy a faster system with a refreshed design. We'll have to wait until September to see the final version in action.
