Apple iOS 27 focuses on performance and AI—Fewer flashy features, Smarter upgrades

According to a recent Bloomberg report, Apple plans to release iOS 27 in 2026 with a clear shift in strategy: instead of adding many new features, the update will prioritize system performance, stability, and artificial intelligence (AI) enhancements.

In recent years, Apple wowed users with bold visual updates like the “Liquid Glass” interface. But for iOS 27, the company is taking a different path—focusing on refining the core experience and improving overall system quality.

Mark Gurman, Bloomberg’s tech reporter, noted in his “Power On” newsletter that this approach mirrors Mac OS X Leopard (2009), which emphasized software polish and under-the-hood improvements over flashy additions. Importantly, this optimization effort won’t stop at iOS—it will also apply to macOS 27, visionOS 27, tvOS 27, and watchOS 27.

Apple’s engineering teams are currently reviewing all operating systems to:

• Remove unnecessary code
• Fix long-standing bugs
• Boost speed, efficiency, and user experience

That doesn’t mean iOS 27 will lack innovation. AI will be central to the update. Rumors suggest a smarter “Smart Siri” powered by Google’s Gemini model could debut. Apple is also exploring a new Health+ subscription service featuring an AI health assistant and may launch its own AI-powered search tool to rival ChatGPT and Perplexity.

Additionally, iOS 27 could lay the groundwork for Apple’s first foldable iPhone, while introducing:

• Enterprise-focused optimizations
• Design tweaks to the “Liquid Glass” interface
• Features tailored for emerging markets

Reactions to Apple’s new direction are mixed. Some welcome the focus on reliability; others wonder if fewer new features might make updates feel less exciting. Either way, Apple appears to be betting that in the age of AI, a smoother, smarter system matters more than surface-level novelty.