iOS 27 Features May Be Limited as Apple Focuses on Software Quality

iOS 26 brought much-needed enhancements and a UI revamp for iPhone users with the Liquid Glass redesign and a host of other features. However, a new report suggests that Apple is planning a shift in its 2026 software strategy and could prioritise stability over bringing new iOS 27 features. 

iOS 27 could be a Snow Leopard-like update

According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple may focus on the underlying software quality on iOS 27, macOS 27 and other platforms instead of new features. The brand's 2026 software strategy will closely resemble that of the OS X Snow Leopard update.

For those unaware, OS X Snow Leopard was released back in 2009 and with Apple solely focusing on cleaning up the underlying code, bloat and boosting the overall performance. Apple may do the same with its upcoming releases and if you're expecting big iOS 27 features, you're in for a disappointment.

That said, the iOS 27 update will not be entirely without new additions, though. Gurman says Apple may release a few AI features, including an AI health agent, which will be available in an Apple Health+ subscription. There will also be an AI-powered web search feature powered by Gemini, thanks to the Apple-Google partnership.

Beyond stability and AI, iOS 27 is also expected to include enhancements for enterprise users and emerging markets. There may also be a few tweaks to the Liquid Glass interface. Additionally, the update is also expected to lay the groundwork for future hardware, notably with the foldable iPhone launch date reportedly scheduled for 2026. 

So, while it's too early to say the kind of iOS 27 features we'll get to see, users can be on the lookout for the iOS 26.4 update, which is expected to arrive with a more personalised Siri powered by Gemini, adding to the already extensive list of iOS 26 features. Besides, the version is also expected to bring support for encrypted RCS messaging and support for Digital Passport in Apple Wallet.