At the WWDC developer conference, Apple unveiled new iterations of its operating systems: iOS 27 and iPadOS 27. Initial builds are presently accessible to developers, with public beta testing commencing next month and the final release for consumers expected in the autumn.
The most significant advancement across both platforms introduces the revamped Apple Intelligence ecosystem and a next-generation Siri assistant, Siri AI. This voice assistant now features its own dedicated application, deeper system integration, and enhanced artificial intelligence capabilities that are now accessible within numerous standard Apple applications.
In addition to its AI enhancements, Apple has significantly refined the visual appearance of its operating systems. The company has continued to evolve the Liquid Glass design, incorporating manual control over interface transparency levels. Visual effects have also been improved, element contrast has been heightened, and app icons now boast greater detail and clarity.
iOS 27 places a considerable emphasis on performance. Through the optimization of system processes, applications launch faster (by 30%), photos in the library load noticeably quicker (by 70%), and file transfers via AirDrop take less time (a reduction of up to 80%). Connectivity between Wi-Fi and cellular networks has also seen improvements, aiming for a more stable and seamless user experience.
Modifications have also been applied to the Mail application. Search functionality has become more intelligent, automatically prioritizing the most relevant results at the top of the list. The capabilities of VoiceOver, designed for visually impaired users, have been substantially expanded. It can now provide more detailed image descriptions, automatically generate video captions, and translate existing captions into other languages.
Among the most notable enhancements is extended support for shared iCloud albums. Users on Android and Windows devices can now participate in family and group albums, as well as upload photos and videos in full resolution.
Apple Maps has also received an update. The Flyover mode offers enhanced detail, and the GymKit feature is now compatible not only with Apple Watch but also with iPhones and the new AirPods Pro 3. This allows for direct connection to compatible fitness equipment.
iPadOS 27 primarily focuses on content and file management. Users can now efficiently create comprehensive slideshows from photos and videos, customizing display duration, music, and transition effects. Completed projects can be exported as standard video files.
Apple has also improved the synchronization of notifications and unread messages across devices. Calendar management has been made more convenient, with events now creatable and editable through simple text or voice commands.
Another key improvement relates to external storage. Apple reports a multi-fold increase in file transfer and viewing speeds for connected flash drives and hard disks, which should significantly streamline the handling of large data volumes on iPads.
The new iOS and iPadOS versions will be rolled out to all compatible devices this autumn. A list of iPhone models compatible with iOS 27 has already been published.
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