Clues about Apple's major iOS 27 operating system update suggest an upgrade to the AI feature called Apple Intelligence, marking the end of Tim Cook's tenure.
Apple's annual Worldwide Developers Conference 2026, or WWDC26, scheduled from 8 to 12 June 2026, is generating interest with new feature updates for iOS 27.
The most significant Apple update, and likely the main highlight, is the AI feature. According to Mark Gurman, Apple Intelligence's image-generation capabilities will be greatly enhanced this year. Previously, tools like Image Playground on iPhone had usage limitations and lagged far behind competitors such as Gemini or ChatGPT. Therefore, the iOS 27 update represents a crucial step for Apple to elevate its AI capabilities to be competitive in the market.
The second update involves improving the AirPods user experience. Although Apple has no plans to develop a separate dedicated app, it will completely redesign the control screen and settings menu. The focus is on organizing features into clear categories, making them more practical and flexible, so users can customize functions more conveniently.
Lastly, there is a feature likely less relevant to users in Thailand, as it stems from Apple's compliance with European Union regulations requiring iOS to be more open to third-party developers, following the introduction of alternative app stores.
Recent reports indicate that iOS 27 will allow users to set streaming protocols other than AirPlay as the system default. This means Apple device users in Europe may choose systems like Google Cast as their primary option for sending audio and video directly to other devices.
At WWDC 2026, besides unveiling iOS 27's new features, there will be news about Apple's current CEO Tim Cook stepping down and handing over leadership to John Ternus to continue guiding the tech giant in September.