Apple is already working on iOS 27, its next major iPhone operating system update, expected to arrive in fall 2026 following a developer preview at WWDC. Early reports and industry leaks suggest the focus won’t just be on polish and fixes — there could be some significant feature upgrades that reshape how you use your iPhone every day. 

Here are the top 5 areas Apple might improve or introduce in iOS 27, based on reports and rumors from multiple insider sources and tech analysts.

1. Smarter Apple Intelligence and Web Search Tools

One of the most talked-about upgrades expected in iOS 27 is the expansion of Apple’s AI capabilities. This includes:

  • A new AI-powered web search tool integrated into Spotlight, Siri, and Safari

  • Smarter responses backed by large language models

  • More predictive, personalized assistance for everyday tasks

These moves aim to make iPhone search more helpful without leaving the Apple ecosystem. 

2. Photo App Improvements

The Photos app has been under redesign ever since Apple shifted to a “collections-first” model in the previous update. In iOS 27, Apple could refine this further by:

  • Enhancing how moments, trips, and people are grouped

  • Improving navigation and discovery

  • Making it easier to find photos with AI-powered suggestions

Users have called for more intuitive album management, and this update could deliver on that.

3. New AirPods Pairing and Connectivity System

Rumors point to a redesigned AirPods pairing experience in iOS 27. Apple may streamline how AirPods, Beats, and future audio devices connect:

  • Faster, more reliable pairing

  • Improved auto-switch logic

  • Better integration with audio sharing and spatial features

This could make using AirPods with multiple Apple devices more seamless.

4. Health+ and Advanced Health AI

Apple’s Health app may get a major overhaul with the rumored Health+ initiative. Instead of simply tracking metrics, the Health app could offer:

  • A health-focused AI assistant providing coaching and personalized guidance

  • Deeper insights by combining iPhone, Apple Watch, and even third-party device data

  • Contextual suggestions related to diet, activity, stress, and sleep

This would mark a shift toward more proactive wellbeing features on iPhone. 

5. Quality, Polish, and Stability — A “Snow Leopard-Style” Update

Beyond new features, Apple reportedly plans to give iOS 27 a strong foundation in performance, reliability, and refinement, similar to Apple’s Snow Leopard update in macOS history. That means:

  • Fewer bugs and smoother performance across devices

  • Better memory and power management

  • Incremental enhancements to core apps and services

Apple may take a more cautious approach to new AI tools, balancing innovation with stability.

Extra Rumored Enhancements Users Are Watching

Beyond the top 5, iOS 27 leaks and discussions suggest:

  • A visual redesign of Siri to make interactions more natural

  • Calendar app overhaul and multitasking improvements

  • Better multitasking support for potential foldable iPhone screens

  • Improved background task handling and app continuity

These features reflect Apple’s push to evolve both usability and performance.