Apple has released the public beta of iPadOS 27, allowing anyone with a compatible iPad to test the upcoming operating system before its official launch this fall. The update brings a mix of performance enhancements and new features, including a dedicated Siri AI experience, a redesigned search interface, and updates to many core apps. Here's a detailed look at what iPadOS 27 offers and how you can get the public beta on your device.
How to install iPadOS 27 public beta
If you want to try the next major iPad update early, the iPadOS 27 public beta is now available through Apple's beta software program. The process is straightforward but requires enrolling your device first. Visit beta.apple.com and sign in with your Apple ID to register your iPad. After enrollment, go to Settings on your iPad, tap General, then Software Update. Under the 'Beta Updates' section, select 'iPadOS 27 Public Beta'. The update should then appear as available for download. Tap 'Update Now' to install it. Keep in mind that beta software often contains bugs and may affect performance or battery life, so it's best installed on a secondary device if possible. Apple recommends backing up your iPad before proceeding.
New features and changes in iPadOS 27
Performance improvements
iPadOS 27 introduces a range of under-the-hood optimizations that make everyday tasks feel snappier. AirDrop transfers are faster, file browsing and copying in the Files app is more responsive, and window management—including switching and closing apps—feels smoother. Accessing the menu bar and using system-wide gestures also benefit from reduced latency. These changes build on the performance foundations laid by previous iPadOS versions, aiming to make multitasking and pro workflows more fluid.
Siri AI and universal search
Perhaps the most headline-grabbing addition is Siri AI, available on compatible iPad models. Apple has integrated this into a new dedicated Siri app, which also appears as a system-wide feature. You can invoke search by pulling down from the top of the screen, which now merges Siri and Spotlight into a single unified interface. This means you can ask questions, perform calculations, open apps, or search the web and your device's content from one place. Siri AI is designed to understand context better and provide more proactive suggestions, similar to the intelligence features seen in recent iOS updates. The feature relies on on-device processing for privacy, though some queries may use Apple's servers.
Updates to built-in apps
Apple has refreshed many of its apps in iPadOS 27. Messages gains new effects and sticker integration, Notes improves scanning and handwriting recognition, and Photos introduces smarter album organization and editing tools. Calendar now supports richer event details, Mail offers smarter categorisation, and Reminders gets natural language input enhancements. Maps adds more detailed city maps and cycling routes, Safari improves tab management and privacy reports, and Music gains a redesigned listening history. The Passwords app—introduced in a previous update—receives new security alerts, Home expands Matter support, and Shortcuts includes more powerful automation triggers. Each app update builds on the existing feature set to make the iPad a more capable productivity and entertainment device.
System-wide enhancements
iPadOS 27 introduces a 'Liquid Glass' slider that allows you to adjust the user interface transparency and blur effects to your preference. Apple Intelligence powers custom wallpaper generation, letting you create unique backgrounds using AI. A Grammarly-style keyboard enhancement provides inline text suggestions, corrections, and rewriting options across the system. Screen Time and parental controls receive major upgrades, including more granular app limits, activity reports, and content filters. Other changes include extra-large widgets in the Today view, display of the active app name in the status bar, the ability to resize iPhone apps on the iPad, and an optional persistent menu bar for power users. These tweaks collectively refine the iPadOS experience, making it more customizable and efficient.
Best iPad accessories
To complement the new software, consider pairing your iPad with accessories like AirPods Pro 3 for spatial audio, a 100W USB-C fast charger for quick top-ups, a protective tomtoc tablet sleeve, a long 10ft Baseus USB-C cable, or the Apple Pencil Pro for precise input. While not required, these accessories can enhance your iPadOS 27 experience, especially for creative or productivity tasks.
iPadOS 27 represents a significant step forward for Apple's tablet platform, blending performance gains with meaningful new features. The public beta gives users a chance to explore these changes early, though caution is advised due to potential instability. As the fall release approaches, further refinements and bug fixes are expected. Which iPadOS 27 feature are you most excited to try?
Source: 9to5Mac News