Apple Unveils First Public Beta of iOS 27, Marking Siri’s Major AI Overhaul

Apple has officially released the first public beta version of iOS 27 for users today. This update does not require a developer account. Users simply need to register or log in on the Apple Beta Software Program website and select the corresponding version in "Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates" on their iPhone to download and install it. Apple recommends that users try it on a backup device and make an iCloud or computer backup in advance.

Siri's AI is completely restructured

Based on the new Apple Intelligence system, Siri has undergone a complete transformation. It can now hold continuous conversations, understand screen content, perform actions within apps, and retrieve user personal information. Siri's responses are now integrated into the Dynamic Island and have a dedicated app to synchronize history. Additionally, the camera app now includes a new Siri Vision Intelligence mode (such as converting barcodes into wallet passes), and users can customize Siri's speaking speed and tone.

Note: Apple Intelligence requires iPhone 15 Pro or later models; advanced features require iPhone 17 Pro/Max or iPhone Air. It currently supports only some English versions and is not available in the EU region.

Comprehensive upgrades to system performance and visual customization

iOS 27 supports all devices running iOS 26 (iPhone 11 and newer models, iPhone SE second generation and newer models). Thanks to CPU scheduler optimizations starting from the iPhone 11, system performance has significantly improved:

Speed boost: App launch speed is up to 30% faster, AirDrop transfer speed is up to 80% faster, and new photo display speed is up to 70% faster.

Smoothness optimization: Unlocking, desktop navigation, control center scrolling, and camera startup in low power mode are smoother.

Smart network: Switching between Wi-Fi and cellular networks is smarter, and Spotlight, Photos, and Mail search experiences have been redesigned.

Liquid Glass: The visual interface is clearer and more three-dimensional. A new custom slider allows users to freely adjust the system and app transparency from "Ultra Clear" to "Fully Colored."

Evolution of app ecosystem and native features

Safari browser: Automatically organizes tabs by theme, adds a "Notify Me" feature to monitor web changes, and supports creating custom extensions based on natural language descriptions.

Photo editing: Introduces three powerful AI tools: "Clean" (to handle complex distractions), "Extend" (to generate content beyond the frame), and "Space Reconfiguration" (to adjust visual positioning after taking a photo).

Privacy and security: The "Passwords" app automatically replaces weak or leaked passwords, and Shortcuts supports creating automation with plain text requests.

Screen Time: The experience has seen major changes. Parents can set app time limits and schedules for weekdays and weekends with one click (requires all family-shared devices to run OS 27). The "Communication Safety" feature now also detects violent and bloody content, in addition to explicit content.

More practical detail optimizations

iOS 27 also includes many details that enhance the user experience: the Messages app supports sending large files in the background; the Photos app supports full-resolution shared albums and cross-platform uploads, and allows saving video frames as photos with one tap; alarm volume is independent of system volume; the home screen supports extremely large widgets; AirPods add a three-band equalizer; FaceTime supports simultaneous recording with front and rear cameras; the Home app brings more reliable HomeKit 4K security video recording.

The official release of iOS 27 is expected this fall. Test users can report issues they find through the built-in "Feedback Assistant" app.