Apple has released the public beta of iOS 27, billed as the most AI-focused version of its mobile operating system to date. The update brings a significantly expanded Siri, AI-powered photo-editing tools, a redesigned Wallet, and numerous enhancements to Photos, Camera and Weather. The public beta lets users test these features ahead of an expected official launch in September.
iOS 27: 13 features that reshape the iPhone
iOS 27 bundles a range of AI-driven and personalization features. The most visible changes center on a much more capable Siri: it can interpret on-screen content, summarize web pages, draft responses and perform cross-app actions. Apple is also adding a ChatGPT-style conversational assistant accessible via Siri, plus a dedicated Siri app for extended conversations.
Photos gains three AI-powered tools—Reframe (perspective recomposition), Extend (background expansion) and an improved Cleanup for removing unwanted elements. Apple is also introducing AI-generated, extendable wallpapers, icon transparency controls, larger Home Screen widgets and a revamped Lock Screen with fine-grained control over wallpaper placement and widgets. A simple shake gesture provides an undo for accidental Home Screen edits.
Automation gets easier: users can describe a task in natural language and iOS will automatically create the corresponding Shortcut without manual configuration. Wallet is updated to scan physical cards (memberships, loyalty cards, tickets) and generate digital passes stored on the iPhone. Weather now shows more detailed metrics—wind speed, precipitation and cloud cover. Other notable additions include live captions for video, an equalizer for AirPods, a photo rating system, organized handling of identity documents and a redesigned Camera interface with a dedicated Siri mode.
Public beta and rollout schedule
Apple has opened iOS 27 as a public beta to gather feedback and fixes ahead of the final release, which is expected in September. The public beta is intended to help refine performance and resolve bugs reported by testers before the general rollout.
Legal settlement and AI-related refunds
Alongside the beta launch, Apple agreed to a $250 million class-action settlement tied to complaints that the company misled customers about the availability of its AI features marketed as “Apple Intelligence.” The settlement covers U.S. purchasers of all iPhone 16 models and iPhone 15 Pro devices bought between June 10, 2024 and March 29, 2025. Eligible claimants may receive $25 per device, with payments potentially rising to as much as $95 depending on the number of claims and other factors. Apple said iPhone 16 buyers will receive refunds related to the absence of certain AI features at launch.
A turning point for Apple
The combination of a major AI-centric software update and a high-profile settlement over AI promises marks a key moment in Apple’s transition to AI-powered features. Beta testers will have the opportunity to evaluate how these tools are integrated before iOS 27 reaches all users this fall.
