Apple appears set to pivot from the sweeping updates typical of its yearly iOS launches, opting instead for enhancements that prioritize stability and efficiency over bold innovations. In his latest Power On newsletter, analyst Mark Gurman indicates that iOS 27 will emphasize elevating the operating system's reliability and core speed, while also expanding its artificial intelligence capabilities.
Following the introduction of the Liquid Glass interface redesign in iOS 26 and the gradual deployment of incomplete AI functionalities that began with Apple Intelligence a year ago, the company is now concentrating on refining user interactions. Gurman reports that developers are meticulously reviewing Apple's platforms to remove unnecessary elements, squash glitches, and identify ways to significantly enhance speed and general excellence. He likens this direction to the 2009 Mac OS X Snow Leopard update, which stressed resolving issues, streamlining operations, and improving productivity.
Advancing artificial intelligence remains a key objective, according to the analysis. Efforts include developing a search engine powered by AI, revamping Apple Intelligence, and embedding the technology deeper into various applications. The anticipated upgraded, more intuitive Siri with personalized AI assistance, first announced in 2024, has yet to materialize, but Gurman predicts its debut ahead of iOS 27—potentially alongside iOS 26.4 update in the upcoming spring.