iOS 27 confirmed and these are 6 free iPhone upgrades you won't want to miss

Apple has unveiled iOS 27, its next major iPhone software update arriving this autumn. Packed with smarter AI, faster performance and more personalisation, here are six of the biggest upgrades to look forward to.

1. Customise your iPhone

Apple introduced its eye-catching Liquid Glass design last year, and now it's becoming far more flexible. iOS 27 adds a new transparency slider that lets users control exactly how glass-like the interface appears. Adjust it from crystal clear to deeply tinted, creating a look that suits your style. Apple says the feature was added following user feedback.

The company is also refreshing several app icons, including Apple Maps, giving them a sharper and more detailed appearance.

2. Siri gets smarter

Siri is receiving one of its biggest upgrades yet. In iOS 27, Apple's personal assistant will be better at finding information, responding to messages and understanding more complex requests. It will also help organise calendars, create to-do lists and even assist with travel planning.

A new Visual Intelligence mode is being integrated directly into the Camera app. Simply point your iPhone at an object to receive instant information. Scan a restaurant bill to split costs with friends, or point the camera at a meal to get nutritional insights.

3. Faster performance

Apple is promising iOS 27 will offer noticeable speed improvements across the iPhone lineup, including older devices. Apps will launch up to 30% faster, photos will load more quickly in the library, and AirDrop transfers are expected to be up to 80% faster.

Owners of older models, such as the iPhone 11, could see some of the biggest gains, helping extend the life of their devices without upgrading.

4. Stronger, smoother connectivity

iOS 27 is designed to keep users connected more reliably than ever. The update allows iPhones to switch from Wi-Fi and 4G or 5G networks more seamlessly, reducing interruptions when moving between these connections.

Whether you're following directions as you leave home or taking a FaceTime call after landing at an airport, the transition should feel much smoother, with far fewer annoying dropouts.

READ MORE: Apple will offer a very smart free upgrade, but only if your iPhone is on this list

5. Powerful photo editing made simple

Apple is adding a suite of upgraded photo-editing tools that make complex edits effortless. Users will be able to remove unwanted people and objects just by tapping on the display, expand image backgrounds and make professional-looking adjustments without specialist software.

A new feature called Spatial Reframing will also allow users to reposition subjects in photos long after the original image was captured.

6. AirPods get an audio boost

AirPods users are getting more control over their listening experience. A new AirPods Custom EQ feature will allow users to fine-tune bass, mid-range and treble levels to match their personal preferences.

The result is a more tailored sound profile that lets you get the most from your music, podcasts and movies.

HERE IS THE FULL LIST OF COMPATIBLE IPHONES

iPhone 17 Pro Max • iPhone 17 Pro • iPhone Air • iPhone 17 • iPhone 17e

iPhone 16 Pro Max • iPhone 16 Pro • iPhone 16 Plus • iPhone 16 • iPhone 16e

iPhone 15 Pro Max • iPhone 15 Pro • iPhone 15 Plus • iPhone 15

iPhone 14 Pro Max • iPhone 14 Pro • iPhone 14 Plus • iPhone 14

iPhone 13 Pro Max • iPhone 13 Pro • iPhone 13 • iPhone 13 mini

iPhone 12 Pro Max • iPhone 12 Pro • iPhone 12 • iPhone 12 mini

iPhone 11 Pro Max • iPhone 11 Pro • iPhone 11

iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)