Apple's iOS 27 Update Brings a Wealth of New Features and Upgrades
Apple's latest iOS 27 update has finally arrived, and with it comes a host of exciting new features and upgrades that are set to revolutionize the way we use our iPhones and iPads. From smarter bill splitting to improved Apple Maps and enhanced Apple Music, there's something for everyone in this latest update.
Smarter Bill Splitting in Apple Wallet
One of the standout features of the iOS 27 update is the introduction of smarter bill splitting in Apple Wallet. This new feature allows users to scan receipts using their iPhone camera and automatically split bills with friends using Apple Cash. Powered by Apple Intelligence, the feature can identify individual items on a receipt, calculate each person's share of taxes and tips, and facilitate repayment directly through Messages or Wallet.
Improved Apple Maps
Apple has also launched a major overhaul of its Apple Maps feature, introducing a revamped hotel key experience that allows users to access trip details, activity schedules, service information, and real-time updates directly within Wallet. Additionally, the company has introduced a new feature called "Local Lists," which allows users to discover and save recommendations for restaurants, attractions, and other spots within Maps by seeing what's trending.
Enhanced Apple Music
Apple Music is also getting a significant boost with the iOS 27 update. The company is expanding the "Lyrics Translation" feature to support seven additional language pairings, including English translations for songs in French, German, Italian, Korean, Spanish, and Japanese. Additionally, the "AutoMix" feature, which automatically creates smoother transitions between songs, is being enhanced with more immersive mixes and is expanding beyond iPhone to Apple TV and HomePod.
Other Key Features and Upgrades
- Find My is becoming more flexible with new location-sharing controls, allowing users to share their location for a custom amount of time or temporarily pause location sharing with individual contacts.
- Apple Pay is receiving a redesigned checkout experience online and in apps, making it easier for users to swipe between payment cards and view information such as rewards balances and debit account balances.
- Fitness+ is launching a new "Strong Through Menopause" program featuring guided Yoga and Strength workouts designed to help people navigating perimenopause and menopause build strength, improve mobility and balance, and manage stress.
- Apple is also introducing full-resolution photo sharing, support for additional file types, emoji reactions, improved activity feeds, and the ability to view activity on a per-album basis.
Availability and Developer Access
All these features and upgrades are available for developers to test right now through the Apple Developer Program, with a public beta arriving next month. When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.