iOS 27 is out, bringing a smarter Siri, faster app launches and quicker AirDrop transfers. Here’s what you need before updating, and exactly how to do it.
What you need before you start
Make sure your iPhone is one of the supported models. iOS 27 works on iPhone 11 and every model released after it, including the 18 Pro, Pro Max and Duo, all the way back to the iPhone SE (2nd generation). You’ll also want at least 50% battery or your charger plugged in, a stable Wi-Fi connection, and enough free storage for the download, usually a few gigabytes depending on your model.
It’s also worth backing up your phone first, either to iCloud or to a computer, just in case anything goes wrong during the update.
Step-by-step: updating over Wi-Fi
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Tap General.
- Tap Software Update.
- Wait for your iPhone to check for updates. iOS 27 should appear once it’s found.
- Tap Download and Install.
- Enter your passcode if asked.
- Keep your iPhone connected to Wi-Fi and let it finish downloading.
- Once the download completes, tap Install Now, or schedule the install for later that night.
- Your iPhone will restart one or more times during installation. This is normal.
- When it finishes, unlock your phone to confirm the update by checking Settings > General > About, where the software version should now read iOS 27.
What’s new once you’re updated
The headline feature is Siri AI, a significantly upgraded assistant with more context about what’s happening on your device and the ability to work across multiple apps at once. It requires an iPhone 15 Pro or newer to run.
Apple also says app launches are up to 30% faster, photos load up to 70% faster in the Photos app, and AirDrop transfers are up to 80% faster than on iOS 26. There’s also a refreshed Liquid Glass design with more adjustable clarity settings, and an iPhone Handoff feature that lets you switch between two iPhones sharing the same phone number, though that currently requires carrier support.
If the update doesn’t show up right away, try again in a few hours. Apple often rolls out major updates in stages to avoid overloading its servers on release day.
Source: https://www.macrumors.com/2026/09/13/ios-27-release-date-new-features/