Overview
- Apple released the first public betas of iOS 27, iPadOS 27, macOS 27 Golden Gate and related updates, and testers can enroll through the Apple Beta Software Program to download the builds.
- The headline feature is a rebuilt, conversational Siri — branded Siri AI — that can search the web, read on‑screen content and use personal data stored on the device to perform multi‑step tasks.
- Access to Siri AI is gated: Apple requires newer hardware for many Apple Intelligence features (for example, iPhone 15 Pro or later for basic access, M3 or M1 class chips on Mac and iPad respectively), uses waitlists for testers, and limits some features by region.
- Apple says iOS 27 brings measurable speed and UI changes — up to about 30% faster app launches, 70% faster photo loads and 80% faster AirDrop transfers — plus a Liquid Glass transparency slider and new AI tools in Photos, Safari, Shortcuts and Camera.
- Apple warns public betas can be unstable and recommends backing up and installing on non‑critical devices; regulators and regional rules, notably EU interoperability requirements and China compliance, mean Siri AI will be unavailable or limited in some markets at launch.