Apple has begun rolling out iOS 27, introducing improved AI-powered Siri, broader device compatibility, and enhanced child safety tools, signalling a new annual software cycle for the iPhone.
Apple has begun rolling out iOS 27, the next major version of the iPhone operating system, after a lengthy beta period. According to the company, the update is designed to make the device easier to use while adding stronger child safety tools and broader Apple Intelligence features. MacRumors reported that Apple confirmed the release date in advance, and the software is now available through the standard iPhone update process. The latest build also signals the start of a new annual software cycle for the iPhone.
Compatibility remains broad. MacRumors and Apple’s own support documentation say iOS 27 works on the iPhone 11 and later, which means devices that could run iOS 26 can also install the new release. That includes the iPhone 11 family, the iPhone SE third generation, the iPhone 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and 17 ranges, as well as the iPhone Air and iPhone 17e. Apple’s forthcoming iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are expected to ship with the software pre-installed.
The most notable upgrade is Siri AI, which Apple describes as a more conversational assistant with personal context awareness and broader world knowledge. Apple says the feature is still in beta and requires an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, or iPhone 16 model or later, with Siri and the device language set to a supported language. MacRumors said the same hardware limits apply to other Apple Intelligence functions, meaning older compatible iPhones can install iOS 27 but will not receive every headline feature.
Elsewhere, the update adds a range of practical changes. Safari can now sort tabs by topic and includes a Notify Me function for tracking page changes. The Phone app gains Call Context, which can surface relevant information during calls, such as a confirmation code. Calendar now accepts event descriptions written in natural language, while the Home app has gained activity alerts and better camera-footage search. Apple has also expanded accessibility tools, refined Genmoji creation and improved the handling of alarms and timers, which can now use a separate volume level from the rest of the system.
The update also brings visual customisation and stronger safeguards for families. Apple’s Liquid Glass design layer can now be adjusted with a slider, while Mail, Photos and Spotlight have been given improved search tools. According to the company, the child safety changes include a revised setup flow, stronger communication protections and per-app time limits for children. Apple says users can install the update by opening Settings, tapping General, then Software Update, before selecting Download and Install. As with previous major releases, the initial rollout may be slower for some users because of high demand and the size of the download.
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