At its Worldwide Developers Conference, Apple unveiled the features of the upcoming iOS 27 and iPadOS 27. Both operating systems are currently available in preview for developers and will enter open beta next month, leading to a public release this fall.
The standout feature for both iOS 27 and iPadOS 27 is the introduction of Siri AI, an eagerly awaited AI chatbot now deeply integrated into these systems, complete with its own dedicated app. Additionally, Apple has introduced an array of new AI functionalities grouped under the "next-gen Apple Intelligence" initiative.
In addition to these AI advancements, expect to see design enhancements for Liquid Glass, including a new slider to adjust transparency levels. Apple has also updated the UI, ensuring more uniform refraction and improved contrast, while app icons are sharper and more detailed.
iOS 27
App launches will be up to 30% faster, new photos in your library will load up to 70% faster, and AirDrop transfers can be completed up to 80% quicker. Users will experience smoother transitions between Wi-Fi and cellular data, along with a newly optimized CPU scheduler to enhance overall performance.
The Mail app's search feature now incorporates a new ranking system that prioritizes the most relevant results, while VoiceOver gains enhanced capabilities for understanding its environment. This includes richer image descriptions, Action button integration, automatically generated synced subtitles for videos, and the ability to translate existing captions into other languages.
iCloud Shared Albums will allow friends and family using Android and Windows devices to join and contribute their photos, now with full-resolution sharing support. The Maps app has an enhanced Flyover mode, and GymKit will be compatible with the iPhone and AirPods Pro 3, enabling connections to compatible gym equipment.
iPadOS 27 will allow users to play a collection of photos and videos as a slideshow, with customizable options for duration, transition style, and music, and it can even be saved as a video in the library. Missed message notifications and unread count synchronization will be faster and more reliable on iPads, and users can add and edit calendar events simply by describing them verbally. Furthermore, browsing and transferring files from an iPad to an external drive has become up to five times faster.
