After years where the voice assistant was primarily used for simple tasks like setting timers or alarms, iOS 27 brings a fundamental change. It is now possible to effectively use the assistant for complex queries and interpreting context directly displayed on the screen, significantly increasing its practical value.
The improved voice assistant is a prominent new feature in iOS 27. Based on experiences from public and developer beta versions, it is clear that this represents a significant shift. The assistant is now much more intelligent than its previous iterations, which relied primarily on an expanded knowledge base and limited integration with language models. The current version utilizes advanced artificial intelligence models, delivering more accurate and relevant responses. Visually, it is accompanied by a new logo and transition animation.
Practical examples of use include queries about sports events, such as match results, team lineups, or scores. The assistant also handles multi-step instructions, for instance, finding hidden iOS 27 system features and saving them to notes. It also allows dictating and sending messages. Thanks to its ability to extract context from files, messages, and emails, it's possible to ask the assistant to, for example, find a conversation related to a delivery and then create a message for returning goods.
A key feature is the assistant's ability to work with on-screen context. While browsing team lineups, you can ask who the oldest player on the field was, or have text displayed on the screen read aloud. When visiting a startup's website, the assistant can find information about its funding and competition. It's also very useful for saving information from web browsing (such as new coffee roasters) directly into specific notes, although sometimes the note title needs to be simplified for more reliable functionality.
Integration with the Camera app allows asking questions about objects visible in the viewfinder. When photographing a drink in a restaurant, the assistant can preliminarily determine its type based on its color. After clarifying the context, such as an Indian restaurant, it will then offer more precise options. Similarly, you can photograph a coffee package and ask for the recommended preparation method.
The update also includes a dedicated app for the voice assistant, allowing users to view conversation history. Furthermore, in system settings, its voice and expressiveness can be adjusted. Future integration with third-party applications is expected to further expand usage possibilities, with seamless task handovers between the assistant and external apps.
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Advanced AI features in iOS 27 power a range of other system improvements. An example is the creation of shortcuts using natural language, allowing users to describe desired actions, such as “show today's tasks every morning at 8 AM” or “convert photo to JPEG,” without complex setup. Shortcuts can then be further extended with additional steps. Furthermore, in Safari, it's possible to create custom notifications for changes on web pages, such as blogs, product prices, or privacy policies.
The Photos app has gained new tools, such as “reframe” and “extend,” which can improve the appearance of images in some cases. The eraser function for removing objects has also significantly improved, now leaving fewer visible artifacts. Intelligent suggestions in the system appear, for instance, in messages with information about events or locations, which can then be automatically added to Calendar or Notes. The Passwords app now also automatically changes passwords by logging into websites.
Other useful enhancements include a new clipboard feature that simplifies pasting content – from links to photos, videos, and text – between applications. A condensed “paste from Safari” (or similar) button appears on the keyboard, significantly speeding up work. Furthermore, the system interface transparency can be adjusted according to individual preferences. Smart network switching automatically switches from Wi-Fi to cellular data in case of wireless connection issues, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity.
The update also places a strong emphasis on child safety, including new settings that automatically recommend essential applications. Parents can set time limits and permissions for different days of the week. The system also alerts parents to access new websites and allows remote approval. It also displays warnings when exposed to inappropriate content in Messages, FaceTime, and other applications.
Although iOS 27 does not introduce many revolutionary “headline” features apart from the improved assistant, it significantly simplifies daily device usage overall. Instead of previously relying on external tools to answer questions, users now more frequently turn directly to the integrated assistant.
iOS 27 is available for all users with iPhone 11 models or newer and iPhone SE (2nd generation) or newer, via an update in Settings > General > Software Update.