While Apple’s latest Siri and Apple Intelligence updates took center stage at WWDC earlier this month, the tech behemoth also introduced iOS 27 with several enhancements to its core applications and services. Key upgrades include advanced bill-splitting features in Apple Wallet, new options for location sharing in Find My, and enhanced functionalities in Apple Maps.
Apple Maps
Apple has revamped its “Flyover” feature, which offers immersive 3D views of urban landscapes and landmarks. The upgrade promises richer visuals and more fluid navigation.
Additionally, a new feature called “Local Lists” allows users to discover and save trending recommendations for dining, attractions, and points of interest. This initiative appears to aim at reducing reliance on external navigation apps like Google Maps or platforms like Instagram and TikTok for local exploration.
Find My
The Find My app is introducing more adaptable location-sharing options. Starting this fall, users will have the ability to share their whereabouts for customized durations—ranging from mere minutes to several days, or even specifying a particular date and time.
Further enhancements allow users to temporarily pause location sharing with specific contacts until day’s end, accommodating various scenarios, such as keeping surprise events a secret.
Apple Wallet
Apple Wallet is set to receive significant enhancements. Among the notable features is the capability to scan receipts using the iPhone camera for automatic bill splitting among friends via Apple Cash. This feature utilizes Apple Intelligence to identify each item on the receipt and calculate individual shares for taxes and tips, streamlining repayment through Messages or Wallet.
The Wallet will also facilitate digitization of membership and loyalty cards, allowing users to scan barcodes or digital cards directly. Compatibility with Apple Watch means passes can even be accessed quickly through the Smart Stack feature.
For travelers, a revamped hotel key experience will be introduced, granting access to room and resort amenities through an iPhone or Apple Watch, and enabling guests at participating venues to access trip details and real-time updates seamlessly within Wallet.
Apple Pay
Apple Pay will feature a fresh checkout design for online transactions and apps, allowing users to easily switch between payment cards while viewing important details like reward points and balances. Soon, users will also be able to add funds to eligible debit cards directly through Wallet or during the Apple Pay purchase process.
For vendors, a new option named “Tap to Share” is being introduced to the existing “Tap to Pay” feature, enabling customers to securely share information such as loyalty accounts and addresses with participating merchants through a simple tap.
Apple Music
Apple Music is broadening its “Lyrics Translation” functionality to include seven new language pairings, offering English translations for songs in various languages such as French, German, and Spanish. The “Lyrics Pronunciation” feature will assist users in singing along to non-native languages with phonetic translations across five new language combinations.
Moreover, the “AutoMix” feature, designed to create seamless transitions between tracks, will receive enhancements for a more immersive listening experience, extending to Apple TV and HomePod users as well. Subscribers will also enjoy Hi-Res Lossless Audio capabilities on Apple TV 4K, delivering studio-quality sound for compatible systems.
Apple Podcasts
Podcast enthusiasts can look forward to enhanced features, including a new “search within show” tool that allows users to search through individual podcast episodes. Apple will also introduce video podcasts for both Mac and Apple TV, aligning with the increasing trend toward video-centric podcasting.
iCloud Shared Albums
Apple’s iCloud will now support full-resolution photo sharing, various file types, emoji responses, and improved activity tracking for albums. New temporary albums will allow users to collaborate on short-term projects without taking up long-term storage in iCloud.
Notably, even those without Apple devices can now contribute photos via the web.
Fitness+
Fitness+ will introduce a new program titled “Strong Through Menopause,” featuring guided sessions in Yoga and Strength to aid individuals dealing with perimenopause and menopause. Additionally, a “Time to Walk” episode with actress Busy Philipps will share her personal insights on navigating this life stage.
These features are currently available for developers through the Apple Developer Program, with a public beta expected next month.
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