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iOS 27 is about to be officially unveiled at WWDC in June. As every year, Apple will provide a first comprehensive look at the next major iPhone software update there. Numerous rumors are already circulating about new features, design changes, and strategic priorities.
One of the potentially most important new features of iOS 27, however, is unlikely to be seen this summer. Many indications suggest that Apple is holding back a key feature until the launch of the iPhone Fold in September: enhanced multitasking.
WWDC is just over three months away. Besides iOS 27, macOS 27 and other software updates will also be unveiled there. Traditionally, Apple presents the most important features in June and then starts the beta phase before releasing the final version in September.
According to current rumors, iOS 27 will pursue several clear priorities:
- extensive AI features, including a chatbot version of Siri
- a new web search function
- a strong focus on bug fixes and performance improvements in the style of Snow Leopard
- several new UI updates
Despite this already extensive list, there is one significant change that will probably not be shown in June.
Multitasking as the key to the new form factor
Apple is expected to launch its first foldable iPhone this fall, often referred to as the iPhone Fold. This model introduces a completely new form factor and therefore requires adapted software features in iOS 27.
Last summer, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reported that iOS 27 would prioritize software features specifically tailored to this new form factor. He didn't provide concrete details, but the direction is clear: the software will specifically support the unique hardware.
The design of the iPhone Fold suggests that, when unfolded, it will resemble an iPad mini both visually and functionally. More screen space automatically opens up new possibilities for using apps simultaneously and for productive work.
Parallels to the iPad mini and iPadOS 26
The iPad mini received a powerful new windowing system with iPadOS 26. This allows for significantly more flexible use of multiple apps simultaneously.
Given this, it seems likely that Apple will integrate similar multitasking mechanisms into iOS 27 – but exclusively for the foldable iPhone. Several approaches are possible:
- a tiled multitasking system similar to Split View
- a freer window system with flexibly movable app windows
Regardless of the specific model, it can be assumed that an improved multitasking experience on the larger, unfolded display will play a key role. This functionality is already standard on other foldable smartphones.
Why Apple is probably holding back the feature
Although iOS 27 will be officially unveiled in June, it seems unlikely that Apple will show all the multitasking features for the iPhone Fold at WWDC.
The reason is obvious: These features are closely linked to the new hardware. Since the iPhone Fold isn't expected until September, Apple will likely keep the corresponding software details secret until the device's unveiling.
This would make multitasking not just a feature of iOS 27, but a central highlight of the introduction of the new iPhone form factor.
iOS 27: Major new features – and a possible September highlight
iOS 27 is expected to bring numerous new features: AI-powered functions such as a chatbot version of Siri, a new web search function, targeted performance optimizations in the style of Snow Leopard, and several UI updates.
However, the most exciting change might not become fully apparent until autumn. Multitasking on the iPhone Fold would take iOS 27 in a new direction and significantly enhance the user experience.
Whether and to what extent Apple will keep these features secret until September remains to be seen. However, it's clear that iOS 27 won't just be another routine update, but is likely to be closely tied to a new generation of devices. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Apple)
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