iOS 27 is set to introduce a new recovery mode for iPhone and iPad, allowing devices to boot into a simplified interface without loading the full operating system, akin to the recovery mode on Apple silicon Macs. To activate this feature, users need to turn off their device and hold the side button while powering it on. Instead of proceeding into the usual iOS or iPadOS, the device will display a progress bar and enter the new recovery environment.
This recovery screen offers five options: Recovery Assistant, Software Update, Diagnostics Mode, Erase All Content and Settings, and Recovery Mode. It also shows the current battery percentage and connects automatically to known Wi-Fi networks. A toolbar power button allows users to attempt a normal restart.
The new feature enables some repairs that previously required a computer connection to be performed directly on the device. The Recovery Assistant tool is designed to execute some automated fixes with minimal user input. Although the need to use this mode should be rare, it could be particularly useful if a software update fails due to issues like a depleted battery. In such scenarios, the Software Update option could help reinstall the last stable OS version without needing DFU mode and a computer.
Currently, iOS 27 and iPadOS 27 are in developer beta testing, with a public beta expected soon and an official release planned for the fall.
