Apple releases iOS 27 with Siri AI overhaul

Apple unveiled iOS 27 and iPadOS 27, the latest software updates for iPhones and iPads, on the same day. The updates are accessible at no cost for all qualifying devices via the Settings app. However, the simultaneous distribution on launch day may cause delays in full propagation across users.

iOS 27 can be installed on all iPhones running iOS 26, encompassing models such as the iPhone SE 2 and the iPhone 11 series and onwards. iPadOS 27 is compatible with the 2nd-generation forward iPad Pro, 4th-generation and later iPad Air, 6th-generation and later iPad mini, and the A16 iPad.

The updates integrate an enhanced version of Siri AI, capable of more nuanced conversations and context understanding. Users may need to sign up for this feature through the Settings app under the Siri section. Alongside the AI-powered Siri and dedicated Siri app, the updates also introduce Liquid Glass design changes and an assortment of new Apple Intelligence features.

To leverage these AI capabilities, devices must support Apple Intelligence, a feature present on iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, all iPhone 16 models, iPhone 17 models, and iPhone 18 models. For iPads, Apple Intelligence is available on M-series devices and the A17 Pro iPad mini. There are currently no fees associated with Siri AI and other Apple Intelligence features, though Apple may introduce charges for extensive usage later on.

The release notes outline various enhancements, including Siri AI's ability to provide more conversational responses, a refined voice experience, a dedicated Siri app for managing conversations, and integration with the Camera app for tasks like splitting bills or checking food nutrition. Siri can also personalize writing styles in Messages and Mail, and generate custom shortcuts in Home.

Apple Intelligence across apps brings features like spatial reframing in Photos, extended image capabilities, cleaning up large objects, advanced Safari functionalities, summarized activity notifications, and intelligent Calendar event creation. Accessibility enhancements focus on improved VoiceOver support, a more conversational Magnifier experience, and smarter text translation.