12+ reasons to update to iOS 27 today

Today marks the global release of iOS 27, alongside its fellow members of Apple's 27 series OS family, for every iPhone user. Even if you're still unsure about making the switch, here are 12 compelling reasons to update your device right away.

Speed and performance have seen a significant boost with iOS 27. Apple claims that app launching times are up to 30% faster and AirDrop transfers are now almost twice as swift as before.

The return of Apple's signature 'Liquid Glass' look has been given a much-needed overhaul. Expect sharper icons, improved contrast, and a new slider control for adjusting UI transparency.

For those with two iPhones on compatible carriers, iPhone Handoff makes it a breeze to switch between devices seamlessly. Your eSIM activates as soon as you unlock one of your iPhones, and multiple lines on a single device will transfer effortlessly too.

Apple's AI-powered Siri has undergone a remarkable transformation. Now with a Chat GPT-like interface, a standalone app, and heightened on-screen awareness, Siri is better equipped to understand context and assist you in completing tasks. However, note that many of these advanced features won't be accessible in the EU.

Apple's AI is making waves across various apps, including Reminders' Smart Suggestions. This feature can read your Messages chats and prompt you to set reminders for agreed-upon tasks. Moreover, Notes now supports Markdown copying.

The imagination is unleashed with Shortcuts, now easier to create than ever. Simply describe the actions you desire, and Apple Intelligence will string a shortcut together for you, which can then be utilized across all your systems.

Safari's Notify Me feature now alerts you when a web page updates. Additionally, AI-powered grouping of open tabs into topics allows for easier navigation through related pages.

Though often overlooked, Safari extensions have received much-needed attention in iOS 27. You can now create them using Apple Intelligence, simply by tapping the three-line menu on the left of the address bar, choosing 'Describe Extension,' and letting your creativity run wild.

The Photos app has been enhanced with Spatial Reframing, allowing AI to extend backgrounds and reframe subjects with remarkable precision. The upgraded Clean Up tool now removes distractions even more effectively.

Apple's Passwords app has taken a leap forward in safeguarding your online world. It can now automatically visit a website, sign in, and replace weak or compromised passwords with stronger alternatives.

Parental controls have received a comprehensive overhaul, introducing new features like Ask to Browse, Ask to Buy, contact calling approval, and settings designed to protect minors from nudity, gore, and violence. These controls also include a new scheduling function that manages which apps kids can use during school hours, meals, or bedtime.

Finally, Maps has been significantly improved with the integration of aerial imagery and vision intelligence models when using Flyover. This delivers a heightened level of detail and a more immersive experience. Keep in mind that Mail search indexing and search results will need some time to complete, along with more accurate unread counts. And, of course, Spotlight has been refined to provide smarter, more relevant suggestions.