Apple Announces iOS 27 Features; Health Service Development Discontinued

Apple has released the developer beta of iOS 27, introducing a range of updates across the Health, Fitness, Wallet, and Maps applications. The company has also discontinued development of a planned AI health service, according to an internal report.

Development Status

Apple has halted work on an AI health service that was under development for iOS 27. The company may revisit the project at a future date. The service was not included in the current iOS 27 beta release.

Health and Fitness Updates

• The Browse section has been updated from a list view to a card-style interface.
• A single bottom navigation bar now includes a combined search and browse button.

• Users can analyze food items through the Camera app's Siri mode.
• The feature provides feedback on processing level, protein content, and sugar content, but does not provide exact calorie counts.
• Food items receive a nutritional value ranking ranging from "very low" to "very high."
• Data does not sync to the Health app.
• Requires an iPhone 15 Pro or later.

• Now supports perimenopause and menopause detection.
• The Health app sends notifications when logged cycle patterns suggest perimenopause, using long-term data for users aged 40 and above.
• Users can log symptoms and access educational resources.
• New Fitness+ workouts designed for perimenopause and menopause have been added.
• Data synchronization speed has been improved.

• New features provide parental controls over content, with guidance based on health research.

• Route maps are now more accurate.
• Treadmill workout distance is now reflected more accurately.

• Step counts now sync between the Health and Fitness apps.

• Support has been expanded to the iPhone, allowing pairing with exercise equipment for data syncing without an Apple Watch.
• Synced data includes calories, distance, speed, incline, and pace.

Wallet and Apple Pay Updates

• Receipt scanning and bill splitting powered by Apple Intelligence (using Apple Cash) is now available.
• Support has been added for digitizing physical membership and loyalty cards.
• The hotel key experience has been redesigned, providing trip details and real-time updates.

• The checkout experience has been redesigned with easier card swiping and balance information.
• Users can add funds to eligible debit cards via Wallet or during checkout.
• A "Tap to Share" feature has been introduced for merchants.

Maps, Find My, and Other Services

• The Flyover feature has been updated with more detailed visuals and smoother navigation.
• A new Local Lists feature allows users to discover and save recommendations.

• Users can share their location for a custom duration (minutes, hours, days, or until a specific date).
• Users can temporarily pause location sharing with individual contacts until the end of the day.

• Lyrics Translation is now available for seven language pairings, and Lyrics Pronunciation for five pairings.
• The AutoMix feature has been enhanced and expanded to Apple TV and HomePod.
• Hi-Res Lossless Audio is now supported on Apple TV 4K.

• A search within show feature is now available across Apple devices and the web.
• Video podcasts are now available on Mac and Apple TV.

• New features include full-resolution photo sharing, emoji reactions, and improved activity feeds.
• Temporary albums for short-term projects have been introduced.
• Non-Apple users can contribute to albums via the web.

Fitness+

• A new "Strong Through Menopause" program includes Yoga and Strength workouts.
• A new Time to Walk episode features Busy Philipps.

Availability

The iOS 27 developer beta is currently available. A public beta is scheduled for July, with a public release planned for the fall.