This year's WWDC keynote marked a shift in Apple's focus, emphasizing performance and stability enhancements alongside innovative features. While the spotlight was on new parental controls and advancements in Siri AI and Apple Intelligence, several intriguing elements of iOS 27 and macOS 27 Golden Gate went unnoticed. Here are 20 hidden features that deserve recognition:
You Can Independently Manage Volume Levels
iOS 27 introduces the ability to adjust volume levels for ringtones, media, and alarms separately. By navigating to the Sounds & Haptics settings, users can disable the "Match Ringtone Volume" option for tailored audio experiences.
Dismiss the Now Playing Widget
The Now Playing widget on the Lock Screen can now be dismissed by swiping left, allowing playback to continue from the Control Center instead.
Create QR Codes for Memberships
The Wallet app now features a "Create a Pass" function, enabling users to convert physical membership cards into digital QR codes for easy access.
Video Podcasts on Mac and Apple TV
Apple TV and macOS will soon support video podcasts, enhancing the viewing experience for podcast enthusiasts.
Extra-Large Widgets for iPhone Home Screen
A new "Extra Large" widget size allows apps like Calendar and Weather to occupy the entire Home Screen, providing more information at a glance.
Save Video Frames as Images
Users can now save individual frames from videos directly to their photo library, complete with metadata, streamlining the capture process.
Enhanced Landscape Mode for Apple Apps
Several Apple apps, including Activity and Weather, now support landscape mode, improving usability on larger screens.
Dynamic Timer UI
A new dynamic interface for setting timers in the Control Center allows users to swipe for duration adjustments seamlessly.
New Location-Sharing Options
The revamped Find My app on iPhone and Apple Watch now offers customizable location-sharing features, enhancing user control.
Minimize the Lock Screen Clock
For those who prefer a cleaner look, iOS now allows users to minimize the clock on the Lock Screen, showcasing their wallpaper instead.
Paste Suggestions in Keyboard
After copying text or images, users can quickly paste suggestions directly from the keyboard, enhancing efficiency.
Connectivity Assist Feature
The upgraded Connectivity Assist feature optimizes Wi-Fi and cellular data management, ensuring seamless transitions between networks.
Use the Same Number on Two iPhones
A future update will enable users to share a single phone number across two iPhones, simplifying connectivity.
Scrub Through Songs in CarPlay
iOS 27 enhances CarPlay by allowing users to scrub through songs directly on their car's display, improving the listening experience.
External Monitor Upgrades on macOS 27
macOS 27 introduces support for high-end ultrawide monitors, remembering window layouts for a consistent workspace.
Identify Your Wi-Fi Standard
A new "Wi-Fi Type" section in Settings helps users determine the Wi-Fi standard their router is using, promoting informed connectivity.
Menu Bar Visibility on Mac
Apple has improved the visibility of menu bar items on Macs, ensuring that users can access all applications without hassle.
Touch Input for iPad's Sidecar
macOS 27 allows touch input for iPad's Sidecar feature, enabling users to interact with macOS using their fingers.
Resizable iPhone App Windows on Mac
Users can now resize iPhone app windows on their Mac, enhancing multitasking capabilities.
Pull-to-Refresh on macOS
Safari and Mail on macOS 27 now support the popular pull-to-refresh feature, streamlining browsing and email management.
These enhancements reflect Apple's commitment to user experience, paving the way for a more integrated and dynamic future in technology.