At its “Surprise and Shine” event on Wednesday, Apple announced the Sept. 14 release of iOS 27, a major update that includes AI-powered Siri and enhanced photo-editing features. The new software will be available for a broad range of iPhone models, including the newly launched iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, and According to Apple, users can install the update via the Settings app under General > Software Update.

AI Features and Enhanced Photo Editing

One of the most notable features of iOS 27 is the AI-powered Siri, which allows users to interact with the assistant in a chatbot-like manner, as the AI is powered by Google Gemini. Mashable also reported that the update brings improved AI photo-editing tools, such as spatial reframing, enabling users to remove unwanted details or describe edits to Siri via voice or text. These features are designed to complement the new camera capabilities of the iPhone 18 Pro Max.

Apple also introduced subtle customization options for Liquid Glass and updates for apps like Health, Photos, and Notes. These changes reflect Apple’s effort to compete with AI features already available on Android devices from Google and Samsung, which have offered AI editing tools for a couple of years.

Compatibility and New Devices

iOS 27 is compatible with a wide range of iPhone models, including the iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, and the new iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. Unlike previous updates, Apple did not leave out any models this time, according to Applesfera; the company also announced a foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo, and a new iPhone Air.

In addition to the iPhone lineup, Apple introduced the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, though the Series 12 features advanced health sensors and the S11 chip, enabling more frequent heart rate and heart rate variability measurements. It also introduces a new Daily Fitness Value metric, and the Ultra 4, larger and more rugged, is designed for outdoor and water sports with a 49 mm case size and extended battery life. According to o2 Online, the two models differ in size, weight, and use cases, with the Ultra 4 aimed at outdoor enthusiasts.

Photography Innovations

The iPhone 12 Pro and Pro Max models continue to be praised for their professional-grade camera systems. According to 브런치, the iPhone 12 Pro lineup features a triple-lens camera system with a 120-degree ultra-wide lens, a telephoto lens, and a new f/1.6 wide lens. These models also include optical image stabilization and a LiDAR scanner for improved low-light and portrait photography; Photographer Nathan Underwood praised the iPhone 12 Pro Max for its ability to capture stunning floral photography with ease.