Apple has officially released iOS 27 for iPhones and other compatible devices, marking the end of an extended beta period. Alongside the major version 27 rollout, the company also issued iOS 26.7 updates for users who are sticking with the previous operating system. Both updates introduce new functionalities and address numerous security concerns.
The flagship addition to iOS 27 is Siri AI, which now operates with its own distinct set of AI capabilities. Designed to rival assistants like ChatGPT and Gemini, Siri AI can answer queries, follow up on requests, and engage in conversation. A key advantage is its deep integration into the operating system, allowing it to assist with apps, settings, and device features more effectively than its predecessor. The updated assistant aims to resolve previous issues with comprehension and accuracy.
Beyond AI, iOS 27 brings several refinements, including new photo editing tools, a customization slider for the Liquid Glass interface, simplified location sharing, and a redesigned Screen Time with enhanced child safety options. Users will also notice improved visual fidelity in the Maps app and faster overall performance.
Siri AI is currently available in beta for English speakers, with French, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, and Spanish support scheduled for October. To access the beta, users must navigate to Settings, select Siri, and tap the “Try Siri AI (Beta)” link, following the on-screen prompts to complete enrollment.
Security remains a priority in this release. iOS 27 patches more than 120 vulnerabilities, some of which could allow attackers to install malware, exfiltrate sensitive data, or take control of unpatched devices. Similarly, the iOS 26.7 update addresses nearly 80 security flaws. In addition to security fixes, version 26.7 introduces new Apple Music features, additional emoji, support for AirPods Max 2, and improved keyboard accuracy.
Apple also released corresponding updates for its other platforms, including iPadOS 27, macOS 27, watchOS 27, tvOS 27, and visionOS 27. However, iPhone, iPad, and Mac users have a unique choice this cycle between the new major version and the patch for the prior one.
Certain older devices are not compatible with iOS 27. Unsupported iPhones include the iPhone X, XR, XS, XS Max, and SE (second generation). iPad models excluded from iPadOS 27 are the iPad (8th generation), iPad mini (5th generation), iPad Air (3rd generation), and the first-generation 11-inch and third-generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro variants. Macs left behind include the 13-inch MacBook Pro (2020), 16-inch MacBook Pro (2019), iMac (2020), and Mac Pro (2019).
Users can determine which update is appropriate by visiting Settings on iPhone or iPad, or System Settings on Mac, then selecting General and Software Update. Devices incompatible with version 27 will only offer the 26.7 update. For supported devices showing both options, users can select “Upgrade Now” to install iOS 27 directly, bypassing version 26.7.
Liquid Glass customization slider sounds like a game changer for accessibility and personalization.
Deep OS integration is great for convenience, but I worry about how much data Siri AI collects.
Sad to see my iPhone X left behind. 120 fixes are nice, but I needed the new features.
Will this beta drain my battery like previous versions? I’m hesitant to update immediately.
Finally, Siri might actually be useful! The 120 security patches are a relief though.