iOS 27 will remain available to a long list of older iPhones, including the iPhone 11 series and second-generation iPhone SE models. The broad update support comes with an important distinction, as the most advanced AI additions are limited to only three devices.
The iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and iPhone Air are the only models listed for upgraded system-wide dictation and expanded Siri voice controls. These devices are identified as models with 12GB of RAM for Apple’s on-device AI model.
Where the feature gap begins
The enhanced dictation feature is intended to improve accuracy and better understand users’ speech across the system. The separate Siri option allows adjustments to different levels of voice speed and expression.
Those capabilities sit above the broader Apple Intelligence tier in iOS 27. Several other iPhones can access Apple Intelligence and Siri AI, but they do not receive the two features reserved for the three top models.
| Model group | Chip | iOS 27 AI access |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone Air | A19 Pro | Apple Intelligence, Siri AI, advanced dictation and Siri voice controls |
| iPhone 17, iPhone 17e | A19 | Apple Intelligence and Siri AI |
| iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 16 Pro | A18 Pro | Apple Intelligence and Siri AI |
| iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16, iPhone 16e | A18 | Apple Intelligence and Siri AI |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 15 Pro | A17 Pro | Apple Intelligence and Siri AI |
The Apple Intelligence-supported devices also receive a redesigned Siri interface and a standalone Siri app. New photo editing tools called Extend and Reframe are included in that wider AI experience.
According to 9to5Mac, cited on Thursday, July 16, 2026, iOS 27 beta is available for the same iPhone models that previously received iOS 26. This means software compatibility extends well beyond the phones equipped for the newest AI functions.
iPhones compatible with iOS 27
| iPhone models | Status | Support note |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 17, iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone 17e | Compatible | Latest lineup |
| iPhone 16e, iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max | Compatible | Included in support list |
| iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max | Compatible | Included in support list |
| iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max | Compatible | Included in support list |
| iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max | Compatible | Included in support list |
| iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max | Compatible | Included in support list |
| iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, iPhone SE second generation and later | Compatible | Included in support list |
All compatible models are set to receive core iOS 27 changes such as Child Safety, Liquid Glass visual customization, and updates to Messages, FaceTime, Maps, and Music. The update therefore provides new system features even for users whose devices do not qualify for Apple Intelligence.
The split creates three clear levels of access: general iOS 27 compatibility, Apple Intelligence support on selected chips, and the most advanced on-device AI functions on three 12GB models. For owners of older iPhones, the update remains relevant, although its most sophisticated tools are concentrated in the newest high-end devices.
