Apple has officially announced iOS 27, the next major operating system for iPhones, during its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) held at its futuristic headquarters in Cupertino. The update, which will succeed iOS 26, is set to launch this autumn and will be available as a free upgrade for a wide range of devices.
New Features in iOS 27
The upcoming software introduces several enhancements, including expanded customisation options for Apple's Liquid Glass design, smarter file management tools, and a significantly upgraded Siri. Apple claims that its virtual assistant will now handle more complex tasks, such as drafting emails, creating calendar events, and even booking tickets for concerts and other live events.
Performance improvements are a major focus, particularly for older devices. A new CPU Scheduler aims to make iPhones feel more responsive, helping to extend the lifespan of existing hardware. According to Apple, apps on iPhone and iPad will launch up to 30 per cent faster, newly captured photos will load up to 70 per cent quicker, and AirDrop transfers could be up to 80 per cent faster.
Family and Parental Controls
Families will benefit from a range of new parental controls. Apple is introducing tools designed to give parents greater control over content access, communication, and app usage. New features include a simplified device setup process, Ask to Browse permissions, Time Allowances, and expanded Screen Time controls, all aimed at fostering healthy digital habits.
"At Apple, our mission has always been to create technology that empowers people and enriches their lives while helping keep them safe," said Sumbul Desai, Apple's Vice President of Health and Fitness. "Today, we're introducing major updates to help families thoughtfully establish age-based protections and develop healthy digital habits."
Compatible Devices
Apple has confirmed that every iPhone currently running iOS 26 will be eligible for the iOS 27 update. The compatible devices include:
- iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 16e
- iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone Air, iPhone 17e
- iPhone SE (2nd generation), iPhone SE (3rd generation)
With performance enhancements, deeper personalisation, and a stronger focus on family safety features, iOS 27 is shaping up to be one of Apple's most comprehensive software updates in recent years.
