Apple has opened the iOS 27 public beta, letting users test new features ahead of the final release slated for September. Sign up with your Apple ID via Apple’s Public Beta Software Program website, then install the beta directly from eligible iPhones.
How to install the iOS 27 public beta
– Enroll your Apple ID on Apple’s public beta portal.
– If your device is running iOS 16.4 or iPadOS 16.4 (or later), install the beta on your iPhone as follows:
– Open Settings
– Tap General, then Software Update
– Select the public beta and follow the on‑screen instructions
If your iPhone is not on iOS 16.4, the notice says you must first update to the latest version of iOS (the original text mentions iOS 26) before installing the beta. The beta download is roughly 10 GB, so use Wi‑Fi. Your device will restart to complete installation; apps and files should not be deleted during the update.
What’s new in iOS 27?
iOS 27 brings several headline features: a next‑generation Siri, AI‑powered photo editing tools, enhanced parental controls, and UI refinements under the “Liquid Design” banner. Apple also promises performance gains—app launches and AirDrop recipient discovery up to 30% faster, AirPlay connections up to 70% faster, and AirDrop up to 80% faster.
Note: Some advanced Apple Intelligence features will be restricted to the newest models: iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and iPhone Air.
Compatible devices and timeline
Apple says all iPhones compatible with iOS 26 will be able to upgrade to iOS 27. The provided list includes, among others, the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max, iPhone Air, and devices from the iPhone 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, and 11 lines, as well as the SE (2022 and 2020) models. The final public release is expected in September.
