During its Worldwide Developers Conference, Apple unveiled the upcoming features of iOS 27 and iPadOS 27. The preview is now available for developers, with an open beta commencing next month. Both systems are set to launch for the public this fall.
The standout feature for both iOS 27 and iPadOS 27 is Siri AI, the anticipated AI chatbot integrated throughout these platforms, complete with its own dedicated app. Apple has also introduced a range of new AI functionalities under the umbrella of "next-gen Apple Intelligence".
In addition to AI advancements, users can expect design enhancements for Liquid Glass, including a slider to adjust transparency levels. Apple claims to have refined the user interface with more consistent refraction and improved contrast, resulting in sharper, more detailed app icons.
iOS 27
Users will notice app launches are now up to 30% faster, and new photos will load in the library up to 70% quicker, with AirDrop transfers improved by up to 80%. Network transitions between Wi-Fi and cellular data are now smoother, complemented by a newly optimized CPU scheduler that enhances overall system performance.
The Mail app features an updated search algorithm designed to prioritize the most relevant results, while VoiceOver introduces new capabilities for enhanced environmental awareness, providing richer image descriptions, synchronized subtitles for videos, and automatic translation of captions in different languages.
iCloud Shared Albums now enable friends and family using Android and Windows devices to join and contribute their own photos, with full-resolution sharing capabilities. The Maps app benefits from an upgrade to its Flyover mode, while GymKit is now supported on the iPhone and AirPods Pro 3, allowing connections to compatible gym equipment.
iPadOS 27 introduces the ability to play a collection of photos and videos as a slideshow, complete with options for duration, transition style, and music. Users can even save the slideshow as a video to their library. Additionally, missed message notifications and unread counts sync faster and more reliably on iPad, and events can be added or edited in the calendar via simple descriptions. Lastly, transferring files between an iPad and an external drive is now five times faster.
