While the WWDC 2026 keynote revolved around the complete overhaul of Siri AI, developers who installed the first beta versions of iOS 27 found dozens of improvements spread across the system. Many resolve long-standing user demands and promise a greater impact on everyday use than some features announced on stage.
These unobtrusive updates appear in areas like Home Screen, Safari, Photos, AirPods, Shortcuts, Screen Time, and Wallet. They show that Apple has also invested in deep refinements beyond the core artificial intelligence.
Giant widgets take over the screen
iOS 27 lets you create extra-large widgets that take up practically an entire page of your Home Screen. This opens up the possibility of dedicating specific screens to Calendar, Reminders, Home or other apps, with more information visible at once.
Alarm volume is now independent
One of the oldest complaints has been addressed: users can separately adjust the volume of alarms, timers, alerts and system sounds. Previously, several of these elements shared the same control, which caused frequent problems for those who need different configurations.
Safari gains automatic page monitoring
The browser now allows you to track changes on specific websites and notify the user when there are updates, such as product returns to stock or new publications. The automatic organization of tabs with Apple Intelligence and the creation of extensions via AI also arrive discreetly.
Shortcuts and Siri AI with natural language
The Shortcuts app has evolved a lot and now allows you to create automations using natural language phrases. The new Siri AI maintains context longer, searches information in real time, and delivers more natural voices — although advanced features require iPhone 17 Pro or later.
AI-Powered Photos and Editing
The Photos app has received intelligent reframing, AI-generated image expansion, and an improved Cleanup tool. For the first time, it also automatically creates slideshows. The Passwords app identifies compromised credentials and suggests automatic fixes.
Parental Controls and Health with specific focus
Screen Time has been redesigned with more detailed limits for children, including the “Ask to Browse” feature for authorization requests. The Health app now monitors menopause and perimenopause, expanding female health monitoring.
Other practical improvements
- Faster AirDrop and AirPlay, especially with large files.
- New CPU scheduler that benefits older devices.
- Wallet allows you to create custom tickets.
- Possibility to share the same number on two iPhones.
- More powerful system search and apps like Calendar and Reminders understanding natural language.
- New advanced equalizer for AirPods and visual improvements to Apple Maps.