Millions of iPhones are getting a free speed upgrade, is yours on this list?

Apple iOS 27

Apple iOS 27 (Image: UK)

iPhones slowing down as they get older has long been an issue for users who simply don't want to upgrade to a newer device. As smartphones age, their performance can drop, making things feel sluggish and far less snappy. This lag and stuttering often becomes more noticeable after Apple’s annual iOS update arrives each September with older devices struggling to keep pace with all the new features. However, that could change in 2026.

Apple announced its latest operating system, called iOS 27, at WWDC in California earlier this month, and alongside upgrades such as a smarter Siri, enhanced Apple Intelligence features, improved photo editing tools, smarter parental controls and new ways to personalise the Liquid Glass design, the company is promising a major performance boost.

In fact, Apple is boasting that those who install iOS 27 could see apps open up to 30 percent faster, creating a smoother and more responsive experience.

The improvements don’t stop there. Apple also reckons photos will load up to 70 percent faster between devices, while AirDrop transfers could be up to 80 percent quicker across supported phones.

Most importantly, these improvements are not limited to the newest models like the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Older devices, including the iPhone 11 and iPhone 12, will also benefit as they are getting a new feature called the CPU scheduler.

The technology works by prioritising the app currently in use on screen, rather than spreading processing power across everything running in the background. By continuously adjusting how the phone uses its resources, iOS 27 should deliver a faster and smoother experience.

It remains to be seen how significant the real-world improvements will be, but Apple believes the update could extend the life of older iPhones and reduce the pressure for users to upgrade devices that are still working perfectly well.

“Improvements across platforms push key system capabilities forward so everyday tasks feel faster, smoother, and more enjoyable,” Apple said.

Apple has not confirmed an exact release date yet, but iOS 27 is expected to launch in September.

FULL LIST OF SUPPORTED DEVICES BELOW

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