Apple is expected to unveil iOS 27 during its WWDC 2026 keynote today, and the first developer beta should become available shortly after the event. The update focuses heavily on Apple Intelligence, a redesigned Siri experience, and several useful improvements across Wallet, Photos, Maps, and Shortcuts. Apple is also reportedly putting a strong emphasis on performance, stability, and battery life in this release.
The public beta is expected to arrive in July, while the final version should roll out to compatible iPhones in September alongside Apple’s next iPhone lineup.
1. Dedicated Siri App
One of the biggest rumored additions is a new Siri app that allows users to have ongoing conversations with Siri, similar to modern AI chatbots. Apple is reportedly rebuilding Siri around advanced AI technology, making interactions more natural and context-aware.
2. New “Search or Ask” Interface
Apple is rumored to introduce a new “Search or Ask” interface linked to Siri.
Users may be able to swipe down near the Dynamic Island to open a search experience that combines traditional search with AI-powered answers. Reports suggest this will become a central part of how users interact with Siri on iPhone.
3. Create Custom Passes in Apple Wallet
Apple Wallet could gain a new “Create a Pass” feature.
This would allow users to create digital passes for items such as gym memberships, loyalty cards, event passes, and other physical credentials directly from their iPhone.
4. Apple Cash Bill Splitting
Apple reportedly plans to make splitting expenses much easier.
Users who pay a restaurant bill or group expense could take a picture of the receipt, assign items to different people, and automatically generate Apple Cash payment requests for reimbursement. This feature is expected to work through Wallet and Messages.
5. New AI Photo Editing Tools
The Photos app may receive two new Apple Intelligence features called Extend and Reframe.
These tools would help users expand photos beyond their original borders and automatically adjust image composition with AI assistance. Apple is expected to continue expanding AI-powered editing throughout the Photos app.
6. Generated Subtitles for Videos
Apple has already previewed new accessibility features that include automatic subtitles for personal videos.
This feature would generate captions for videos stored on an iPhone, making content easier to follow and more accessible.
7. Apple Maps via Satellite
Apple could bring satellite connectivity to Maps.
The feature would allow users to access navigation functions even when cellular coverage is limited. Reports also suggest Apple is exploring additional satellite capabilities across the system.
8. Better Battery Life and Performance
Several reports describe iOS 27 as Apple’s version of a Snow Leopard-style release.
Instead of focusing entirely on flashy features, Apple is expected to prioritize bug fixes, system optimization, and efficiency improvements. As a result, users could see better battery life and smoother performance across supported devices.
9. Improved Autocorrect
Apple has reportedly tested a smarter keyboard experience with enhanced autocorrect.
The update could offer more accurate corrections, better suggestions, and improved writing assistance while typing on iPhone. Some reports even compare the improvements to grammar-focused writing tools.
10. Expanded Visual Intelligence
Apple Intelligence is expected to expand into the Camera app.
A new Siri-powered mode could let users scan nutrition labels, business cards, and contact information directly through the camera, making visual searches more useful in everyday situations.
11. AI-Powered Shortcuts
The Shortcuts app may become much easier to use.
Instead of manually building automations, users could simply describe what they want in natural language, and Apple Intelligence would generate the shortcut automatically.
12. AI-Generated Wallpapers
Apple is also rumored to add the ability to create custom wallpapers using Apple Intelligence.
Users would be able to generate unique backgrounds directly on their iPhone based on text prompts and preferences.
How to Install the iOS 27 Beta
If Apple follows its current beta program, users with a free Apple Developer account should be able to install the developer beta after the keynote.
To install it:
- Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Tap General.
- Select Software Update.
- Tap Beta Updates.
- Choose iOS 27 Developer Beta once Apple releases it.
The public beta is expected to arrive in July through Apple’s Beta Software Program.
Final Thoughts
iOS 27 looks set to deliver Apple’s biggest Siri update in years while bringing new AI tools to Photos, Wallet, Shortcuts, and the Camera app. At the same time, Apple appears focused on improving battery life, stability, and overall performance, which should benefit every supported iPhone. The official details will become clear once Apple’s WWDC 2026 keynote begins later today.