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iOS 27 is shaping up, according to code analysis, beta builds and reporting based on sources close to Apple’s development process, as one of the most significant software shifts in recent years.
Rather than a conventional update focused on interface refinements or isolated features, the system appears to be reorganized around a single principle: artificial intelligence as the core layer of the user experience.
Apple Intelligence as the system’s foundation
At the center of this transition is Apple Intelligence, which in iOS 27 is no longer presented as a set of discrete tools but as a structural layer of the operating system.
Instead of responding only to explicit commands, the system increasingly appears designed to coordinate apps, data and system functions, acting as an intermediary layer that interprets context and user intent.
Siri and the shift toward conversational computing
Siri is reportedly being rebuilt as a more advanced conversational assistant, capable of handling complex, multi-step requests.
The goal is to move beyond single-command interactions toward natural language input that can trigger chains of actions across different apps.
In some interpretations of the code and related leaks, Siri may also evolve into a more modular interface, potentially able to interact with third-party AI systems rather than remaining a closed environment.
Compatibility and the possible end of support for A13 devices
Indications from early builds suggest that devices powered by the A13 Bionic chip may no longer be supported.
This would affect:
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (2nd generation, 2020)
The limitation appears to be driven not only by processing power, but by the broader requirements of on-device AI workloads, including neural processing capacity, memory constraints and system architecture.
Compatibility with iOS 27 would remain broad, covering iPhone 12 and later models, but with a growing gap between supported devices and those capable of running the most advanced features.
Uneven access to AI features
Even among compatible devices, access to Apple Intelligence features is expected to vary significantly.
The most advanced capabilities are likely to remain limited to newer hardware, particularly devices from the iPhone 15 Pro generation onward, reinforcing a clearer stratification within Apple’s ecosystem.
Visual Intelligence, Wallet and Safari
System applications are increasingly integrated with AI-driven features.
Visual Intelligence is expected to expand its ability to interpret the physical world, turning real-world elements such as printed text, objects and documents into structured digital data.
Wallet is moving toward more automated handling of identity and payment-related information, reducing the need for manual input when creating or managing passes.
Safari, meanwhile, is expected to introduce smarter tab and content management, with automatic organization and labeling based on on-device analysis of webpages.
Apple’s broader AI strategy
The emerging picture suggests a shift in strategy. Rather than competing directly in the development of large AI models, Apple appears to be positioning itself as an integrator of artificial intelligence within its ecosystem.
In this model, the company’s advantage lies in its control over hardware, operating system and distribution channels, while AI capabilities may increasingly come from a mix of proprietary and third-party systems.
Signs of a foldable or “Ultra” iPhone
Code found in early iOS 27 builds contains references to device states consistent with foldable hardware, including terms associated with hinge movement and display angle tracking.
Other elements point to interface layouts that adapt to significantly wider screens, with dynamic components and redesigned widgets that suggest a more flexible form factor.
While far from confirmation, these signals are consistent with long-running speculation about a future foldable iPhone or a higher-end “Ultra” model.
FAQs on iOS 27
Which iPhones may not support iOS 27?
Based on current leaks, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max and iPhone SE (2nd generation, 2020) may be excluded.
Which devices will be compatible with iOS 27?
iPhone 12 and later models, including iPhone 15, 16 and 17 series devices, as well as iPhone SE (3rd generation).
Will all devices receive the same features?
No. The most advanced Apple Intelligence features are expected to be limited to newer devices, particularly iPhone 15 Pro and later models.
What changes with iOS 27?
The operating system integrates artificial intelligence more deeply, introducing a more capable Siri and a more context-aware, automated user experience.
When will iOS 27 be announced?
It's been introduced at WWDC 2026 on June 8, with a public release expected in Autumn.