Apple has released its first public betas for iOS 27 and other major platform updates, giving early testers a preview of the company’s next software cycle months before the wider fall launch.
Siri AI Takes the Spotlight
The biggest feature in the public beta is Apple’s delayed Siri upgrade.
The Verge reported that the major new feature this year is Siri AI, described as the delayed AI-powered revamp to Siri.
Engadget reported that the new Siri AI transforms the assistant from a basic voice-command system into a modern AI assistant that can hold natural conversations, understand follow-ups, answer questions about screen content and perform multi-step actions inside apps.
MacRumors reported that Siri in iOS 27 can search the web, access personal information, see what is on the screen and take actions in and across apps. Siri AI is closer to Claude or ChatGPT than the previous Siri, with a dedicated Siri app for back-and-forth conversations.
Beta Includes More Than iPhone Software
The release is not limited to iPhones. Other public betas available now include iPadOS 27, watchOS 27 and macOS 27 Golden Gate. Siri AI is also coming to Apple Watch, where it could help answer questions mid-workout or while users are on the move.
Apple’s Mac and iPad updates also bring AI and productivity features. macOS 27 Golden Gate positions Siri AI as a productivity tool that can be summoned from Spotlight, analyze screen content and provide writing help. iPadOS 27 is also available to public beta testers and that today’s public beta is identical to the third developer beta.
Performance and Design Changes Arrive
Apple is also using iOS 27 to refine performance and design. Apple says apps launch up to 30% faster, newly captured pictures appear in Photos up to 70% faster and AirDrop transfers can be up to 80% faster.
The update also adjusts Apple’s controversial Liquid Glass design. Apple updated the Liquid Glass design by adding a transparency slider and refining its look. iOS 27 addresses criticism of last year’s Liquid Glass overhaul with readability improvements and a slider to customize the effect.
Early Testers Should Expect Bugs
Apple’s public beta gives users early access, but it is still pre-release software. Testers may run into unexpected glitches or faster battery drain and recommended backing up devices before installing a beta.
Users can join the iOS 27 public beta through Apple’s beta website, then go to Settings, General, Software Update and choose Beta Updates. Users can sign up on Apple’s beta website and opt in through Settings > General > Software Update by choosing the iOS 27 or iPadOS 27 Public Beta option.
The release gives Apple users a first public look at whether Siri AI can finally modernize the company’s voice assistant. But the safer choice for most users may still be waiting for the stable fall release, especially if their main iPhone, iPad or Mac is used for work, school or daily communication.
