Apple releases iOS 27 public beta for compatible iPhone and iPad models
Apple has opened enrollment in its public beta program for iOS 27 and iPadOS 27, outlining device compatibility, installation steps and a recommendation to use a secondary device and back up data before upgrading.
Apple announced that the first public beta of iOS 27 and iPadOS 27 is now available through its free Apple Beta Software Program. The update supports iPhone 11 and newer models, as well as a range of iPad models, though some older iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad and iPad mini devices are excluded. Certain features, such as an enhanced Siri experience, are limited to the latest iPhone models.
Apple advises users not to install the beta on their primary device, recommending a secondary iPhone or iPad for testing because beta software may contain bugs that could affect functionality. Users are instructed to create a full backup of their device via Finder on a Mac before proceeding, with options for encrypted or unencrypted backups.
To enroll, users must sign in to the Apple Beta Software Program website with their Apple ID, then enable beta updates in Settings → General → Software Update. After selecting the iOS 27 public beta, the device will download and install the software following on-screen prompts.
The beta introduces a more personalized Siri, visual-intelligence features in the Camera app, AI-enhanced Flyover maps, expanded location-sharing controls in Find My, natural-language input for Reminders and Calendar, and upgrades to Wallet, Apple Cash and Apple Pay, among other changes. Apple provides a guide for downgrading to iOS 26 if needed.