Apple has released iOS 27 on September 14, introducing a redesigned Siri AI as part of its Apple Intelligence suite. The update marks a significant expansion of Siri’s capabilities, shifting from basic tasks to a more conversational and context-aware assistant. However, access to advanced features is limited by device compatibility.
iOS 27 is now available for download via Settings > General > Software Update on eligible iPhones. The update includes Apple Intelligence, Apple’s AI framework, which enhances Siri’s functionality. Key improvements include longer conversations, contextual understanding across apps, and the ability to retrieve information from emails, texts, and images. For example, Siri can now find hotel confirmations in older emails, locate recipes shared in messages, or extract WiFi passwords from photos.
Device eligibility for Siri AI varies significantly. While iOS 27 itself is available on iPhone 11 and newer models, the full Apple Intelligence suite—including advanced Siri features—requires iPhone 15 Pro or newer. Further restrictions apply: Siri’s Expressive Voices and advanced dictation are exclusive to iPhone 17 Pro and newer. Other Apple devices with M1 or later chips (iPad, Mac, Vision Pro) and Apple Watch Series 9 or later also support some features, though certain functions require an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone.
Apple CEO John Ternus described the update as part of a push toward “personal intelligence”, emphasizing the iPhone’s role in an integrated ecosystem. The Siri AI update is currently in beta, with users required to opt in via settings and potentially join a waitlist. Apple has also introduced daily usage limits for cloud-based AI features, with expanded access planned for a future fee.
Pre-installation steps include ensuring a Wi-Fi connection, sufficient storage, and a power source. Apple recommends backing up data before updating. The update coincides with the release of new iPhone 18 models, which Apple positions as ideal for AI tasks due to their advanced chips and personal data integration.