iOS 27 Update Brings Customizable Features and Dual Capture

Apple released iOS 27 for iPhone 11 and newer models, including the second-gen iPhone SE.

Apple has released iOS 27 for iPhone 11 and newer models, including the second-gen iPhone SE. The update includes new AI features and stability upgrades. One writer who has been testing the update for nearly three months shares 10 hacks they believe every iOS 27 user should know.

Customize Liquid Glass and Silence Alerts

Apple introduced Liquid Glass with iOS 26, but some users criticized its focus on style over substance. With iOS 27, users can now adjust the transparency effects of Liquid Glass. A new slider under Settings > Appearance > Liquid Glass allows users to reduce or almost eliminate the effect, improving readability. This feature addresses user feedback, offering a balance between aesthetics and functionality, especially for those who prioritize clarity in their interface.

For those who want to silence app notifications and texts while keeping ringtones and alarms loud, iOS 27 allows users to set different volume levels for ringtones, alerts, and alarms. This can be done under Settings > Sounds & Haptics by turning off Match Ringtone Volume under “Alarms and Timers” and “Alerts and System Sounds.” This granular control ensures users can tailor their audio experience to their specific needs, reducing distractions without missing important alarms.

Set Timers from Lock Screen and Use Dual Capture

iOS 27 introduces a new slider that lets users set timers from the Dynamic Island on their iPhone. To use this feature from the Lock Screen, users must remove one of the two controls already present. This can be done by tapping and holding the screen, then tapping Customize near the base of the display. The Dynamic Island slider offers a quick and intuitive way to set timers without unlocking the device, enhancing convenience for multitasking users.

A new feature called Dual Capture allows users to record and stream video from both the front camera and the rear camera simultaneously during a FaceTime call. This feature is limited to iPhone Air, iPhone 17 series, and newer devices. To use Dual Capture, start a FaceTime video call, and tap the Flip button that appears in the selfie video frame. Dual Capture is particularly useful for content creators or users who want to share both their reactions and their surroundings in real-time, adding a new dimension to video calls.

As users explore these new features, they may also consider how iOS 27 could further integrate with their daily routines, such as workout tracking or communication preferences. For instance, the ability to connect directly to GymKit-compatible equipment with an iPhone could reduce reliance on the Apple Watch for workout logging. This integration not only simplifies the workout process but also ensures continuity in tracking, even when the Apple Watch is unavailable.

With GymKit compatibility on iPhones, users can now connect their device directly to treadmills, elliptical machines, and indoor bikes to track their workouts. This feature is particularly useful for those who forget to wear their Apple Watch or when it runs out of charge. To set up, users can tap their iPhone against a GymKit-enabled machine and follow the on-screen instructions. The seamless pairing process ensures that users can start tracking their workouts immediately, with all data securely stored on their iPhone.

Enhance Dictation Accuracy and Access Hidden Recovery Mode

A writer who has been testing iOS 27 highlights the Advanced Dictation Preview feature, which uses Siri AI to improve transcription accuracy. This feature automatically handles capitalization, punctuation, and formatting as users speak. To enable it, users must go to Settings > General > Keyboard > Advanced Dictation Preview. However, this is only available on iPhone 17 Pro series and iPhone Air models. Advanced Dictation Preview significantly reduces the need for manual corrections, making dictation a more efficient and reliable method of text input.

iOS 27 also introduces a hidden recovery mode, similar to macOS, allowing users to diagnose and fix software issues without a computer. To access this mode, users must press Volume Up and release, then press Volume Down and release, followed by holding the Side Button until “Loading recovery options…” appears on the screen. This mode should be used with caution, as some options can erase all data on the device. The hidden recovery mode provides a powerful tool for troubleshooting, but users should back up their data before attempting any repairs to avoid permanent loss.

Utilize Full-Screen Widgets and Temporary Location Hiding

The update introduces extra-large widgets that occupy nearly the entire screen, providing a full view of information. For instance, the Calendar app offers two such widgets: “Up Next” and “List.” To add these, users can hold an empty area on the Home Screen, tap the paintbrush icon, search for “Calendar,” and select the desired widget size. Other apps like Smart Stack and Music also support this feature. These full-screen widgets are ideal for users who want quick access to detailed information without opening multiple apps, streamlining their workflow.

For users concerned about privacy, iOS 27 allows temporary location hiding in the Find My app. By handling to the People tab, tapping the three dots next to a contact, and selecting “Hide Location” under “My Location,” users can stop sharing their location for 24 hours. This feature ensures that location sharing can be paused without affecting other apps that rely on GPS. Temporary location hiding offers a practical solution for users who need occasional privacy without disrupting their overall location-based services.