TL;DR: iScanner turns your iPhone or iPad into a document scanner, and a lifetime subscription is on sale now for $39.99.
Physical scanners take up desk space and are tied to one room, and the free scanning apps on your phone are usually just a vehicle to send you ads. iScanner is a US-based scanning and document tool for iPhone, iPad, and Android that works with virtually any document, and a lifetime subscription is on sale for $39.99 (reg. $199.90).
iScanner finds the edges of a page automatically, straightens curves and skews, and reads text in more than 20 languages. Once a document is scanned, you can export it as a PDF, JPG, DOC, XLS, PPT, or TXT file, so contracts, tax forms, receipts, and handwritten notes all leave your phone in a usable format.
There’s more to iScanner than basic document scans. You can correct color, remove noise, sign by hand or from an image, black out text you don’t want seen, and merge or split files by page. Confidential scans can be locked behind a PIN. Scanning modes go beyond paper too, including ID cards and passports, math problems, area measurement, object counting, and QR codes.
Your purchase includes 200 MB of cloud storage and every future update. iScanner runs on iOS 16, iPadOS 16, and Android 10 or later, and this deal is open to new users only.
This is episode 1,000 of the Macworld Podcast! We’re taking this opportunity to take a look at some historic Apple releases and how they were covered way back then.
Will my Apple Watch 11 be slower on watchOS 27 if my phone doesn’t have Apple Intelligence support?
Daymon D. via email
I do have a question about audio intelligence. If the watch is only buffering the last 15 seconds, and doesn’t record anything, how is the summary feature invoked? To create the summary it “has” to record what the watch hears. Presumably the recording is happening on the iPhone, right?
Apple released macOS 27 Golden Gate on September 14, 2026, but development hasn’t stopped. Just two days later on September 16, Apple issued the first developer beta of macOS 27.2, beginning testing of the operating system’s next major point update. Yes, that’s macOS 27.2, not macOS 27.1.
The macOS 27.2 beta gives developers and testers early access to Apple’s latest fixes, refinements and any features that weren’t ready for the initial Golden Gate release.
However, as with any beta software, it may introduce bugs, compatibility problems and poorer battery life so we recommend caution if you wish to install it.
Here’s everything you need to know about the latest macOS beta, including what’s new, when the next public beta is likely to arrive and whether you should install it.
What’s the latest macOS beta?
Apple offers two beta streams: a developer beta and a public beta. The public beta allows enthusiasts and early adopters to test upcoming changes before they are released to everyone. You need to join Apple’s Beta Software Program to access it.
The latest Mac beta is macOS 27.2 beta 1, which Apple released to registered developers on September 16, 2026. It arrived two days after the public release of macOS 27 Golden Gate.
The corresponding macOS 27.2 public beta is expected shortly. Public betas usually follow developer betas, although Apple does not guarantee a particular schedule.
macOS 27 Golden Gate beta version tracker
Apple released macOS 27.2 Golden Gate Developer Beta on September 16, 2026.
The macOS 27.2 Golden Gate Public Beta should be released sometime the same week; new versions are usually released a day or two after the new developer beta.
macOS 26 Tahoe beta: Apple may continue updating macOS 26 Tahoe with security and maintenance releases, but macOS 27 is now the current operating system and the focus of Apple’s beta program.
macOS 27 Beta timeline
Release
Date
Beta 1
June 8, 2026
Beta 2
June 22, 2026
Beta 3
July 6, 2026
Beta 3 v.2
July 13, 2026
Beta 4
July 20, 2026
Beta 5
August 10, 2026
Beta 6
August 17, 2026
Beta 7
August 24, 2026
Beta 8
August 31, 2026
Release Candidate 1
September 9, 2026
Public Beta 1
July 13, 2026
Public Beta 2
July 22, 2026
Public Beta 3
August 11, 2026
Public Beta 4
August 17, 2026
Public Beta 5
August 24, 2026
Public Beta 6
August 31, 2026
Final Release
September 14, 2026
macOS 27.2 developer beta 1
September 16, 2026
What’s new in the latest beta?
New features in macOS 27.
Foundry
Apple has not announced any major consumer-facing additions in macOS 27.2 beta 1. The following changes are expected though:
Bug fixes and performance improvements: Addressing issues in the first release of macOS 27.
Additional Siri AI languages: Apple has said the Siri AI will expand to French, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese and Spanish in October.
Automatic password changes: The promised feature that automatically changes compromised passwords has not yet been implemented, but it could arrive in macOS 27.2..
Notify Me in Safari: The Safari feature that monitors webpages may arrive in the beta of macOS 27.2.
We’ll update this section as changes are discovered.
Installing the macOS beta lets you test Apple’s next round of features, fixes and refinements before their public release. Most Mac users should remain on the standard version of macOS 27, particularly if they rely on their Mac for work.
Install if…
You need to test apps
You want early access to new features
You have a secondary Mac available
Wait if…
This is your primary work machine
You rely on niche or specialist software
Stability is critical to your workflow
Who are you
Should you install?
A developer testing apps
Consider the developer beta
An enthusiast with a spare Mac
Consider the public beta
General user with one Mac
Stay on macOS 27
What are the risks of installing beta software?
Installing pre-release software on a primary device carries several risks.
System instability: Performance problems, freezes, crashes, and other unexpected behavior are common during beta testing.
App failures: Third-party applications may crash, behave unpredictably, or stop working entirely.
Hardware strain: Early beta builds can increase battery drain and cause Macs to run hotter than usual.
Data loss: Software bugs may corrupt files, and downgrading to a stable version often requires a complete system reset.
Safety precautions and best practices
If you decide to install the beta, take the following precautions:
Use a secondary device: Avoid installing beta software on your primary Mac or on any machine used for critical work.
Create a full backup: Use Time Machine to create a complete backup before upgrading so you can restore your Mac if something goes wrong. Note that this needs to be a Time Machine backup from before the beta was installed and you will lose anything saved subsequently.
Check storage space: Make sure you have at least 15GB of free storage available before beginning the installation.
How to install the macOS beta
Foundry
The process for installing a macOS beta depends on whether you are seeking the Developer Beta or the Public Beta. Apple simplified this process a few years ago, removing the need for a paid developer account to access early builds.
You will need to register your account either as a public beta tester or as a developer in order to enable beta updates on your Mac.
To install the beta follow these steps:
Back up your Mac: Before installing any pre-release software, it is critical to prepare your Mac to avoid data loss. Beta software is inherently unstable and can cause crashes or app compatibility issues.
Register your account either as a public beta tester or as a developer in order to enable beta updates on your Mac: For the Public Beta: Visit the Apple Beta Software Program website, sign in with your Apple ID, and agree to the terms. For the Developer Beta: Register as an Apple Developer on Apple’s website, download the Apple Developer app from the App Store, sign in with your standard Apple ID, and complete the free registration process.
On the Mac where you wish to install the beta, open System Settings and navigate to General > Software Update.
Click the (i) info button next to Beta Updates.
Enable Beta Updates.
The beta will appear as an available upgrade. Select the macOS beta you want to install (e.g., macOS Public Beta or Developer Beta).
Click Upgrade Now to begin the download and installation.
As long as you are a registered developer or enrolled in the public beta program, when the relevant macOS Beta becomes available, it will also show up on your Mac.
Once you are running the beta, the updates will come through to your Mac automatically; you just need to go to Software Update in System Settings and click to install. See How to install macOS.
How to get a free Apple developer account
If you just want a free Apple Developer account so you can access the beta, you can get this via Xcode or the Apple Developer app in iOS. Here’s how to do it via the Apple Developer app on an iPhone:
If you wish to actually publish applications to the App Store or receive support, you’ll need to pay $99/£79 per year for a paid account. You can compare the free and paid accounts here.
FAQ
1.
Who can run the macOS beta?
Anyone can run the macOS beta, but to do so, you do need to register for either the developer beta, the public beta, or both.
Apple offers both developer and public beta programs for macOS, enabling all interested users to test pre-release versions of the operating system. While both betas provide early access to new features, they cater to different user profiles based on technical expertise and risk tolerance. Beta software tends to be buggy so the more stable public beta version may be preferable, but even that will not be bug-free.
In the past, the developer beta was only available to developers who had paid to join Apple’s Developer Program (which costs $99/£79). However, for a couple of years now, Apple has opened up the developer beta to registered developers with free developer accounts. We explain how to get a free developer account below.
Since 2023, the Developer Beta has been available to anyone who registers as a developer, even if they aren’t a paid-up member of Apple’s Developer Program. As a result, people with a basic free developer account can download the new macOS developer beta (we show you how to register below).
Whether you should download the developer beta if you aren’t a developer is another question. We don’t recommend you install the developer beta if you aren’t a developer. Instead, our recommendation is to use the public beta (the first version of which usually arrives in July).
There are a few differences between the public and developer betas. The public beta is not the same as the beta that is released through the developer program. The public beta typically launches after the developer beta has undergone initial testing and refinement
Developers get updates to their beta first, and possibly more frequently. But you should keep in mind that betas are by nature not stable, and because the public beta comes after the developer beta it could be a little safer to install.
The most significant difference is probably the motive of the testers: Developers usually have the aim of ensuring their apps work when the updated macOS is released to the general public, while public beta testers are essentially helping Apple detect bugs and offering feedback on the features. Because of this, developers may get to test new features not available in the public beta.
If you want to get the public beta the first thing you need to do, if you haven’t already, is join Apple’s beta programs read this for more information: How to become an Apple beta tester.
3.
Is the macOS beta stable?
By its nature, a beta has the potential to be unstable. Therefore, it’s not advised that you install it on a Mac that you rely on. If you have a second Mac that isn’t mission-critical, then install it there. We strongly recommend that you don’t risk all by putting the macOS beta on your primary Mac, especially not in the early days of the beta development.
If you don’t have a second Mac, there are a couple of ways you could run macOS beta on your Mac without running the risk of losing data or finding your Mac stops working:
Update your software: We recommend you have the latest full version of macOS installed, although Apple says that the macOS Developer Beta Access Utility requires macOS 10.8 or later.
Make space: We’d recommend at least 25-30GB of available space because the macOS betas tend to be very large. If you end up requiring more space, read: How to free up space on Mac. Note that we always recommend that you have at least 10% space free on your Mac at any time, so if you don’t have that, expect problems!
Should you come across an error or a bug, you should use the Feedback Assistant app to provide feedback to Apple. Launch the app and follow the appropriate steps, selecting the area about which you’re providing feedback and then any specific sub-area. Then describe your issue in a single sentence, before providing a more detailed description, including any specific steps that reproduce the issue. You’ll also be able to attach other files.
You’ll also have to give permission for the Feedback Assistant app to collect diagnostic information from your Mac.
It won’t always be obvious whether something is a bug or just not as easy to use as you might have hoped. Either way, if your feedback is that something appears to work in an illogical way, Apple will want to know that.
If you are having trouble with a third-party app, you can let Apple know by reporting it through the 3rd-party Application Compatibility category in the Feedback Assistant. However, we’d suggest that you also provide feedback to the app’s developer, who will no doubt be grateful.
6.
Will I be able to update from macOS beta to the final version?
Beta users can move to the finished release once its build is newer than – or equivalent to – the beta installed. Read: How to leave the macOS beta.
7.
Can I talk about the beta publicly?
According to Apple and the license agreement all beta testers must agree to, the beta is “Apple confidential information”. By accepting those terms, you agree not to discuss your use of the software with anyone who isn’t also in the Beta Software Program. That means you can’t “blog, post screenshots, tweet, or publicly post information about the public beta software.”
However, you can discuss any information that Apple has publicly disclosed; the company says that information is no longer considered confidential.
8.
How to downgrade from the macOS beta
You can always revert to an earlier version of macOS, though depending on how you back up, it’s not necessarily a painless process.
Start by making sure the data on your drive is backed up, then erase the drive and install the latest public version of macOS. When you first start up your Mac, you can use the Migration Assistant to import your data from the backup. Here’s a more detailed tutorial on downgrading from the macOS beta and we also have a tutorial on downgrading to an older version of the Mac OS.
9.
Is the beta free to download?
Yes, the macOS beta is free to download for both developers and the general public. Apple offers two distinct tracks for testing pre-release software: the Developer Beta and the Public Beta, both of which are now accessible without a paid subscription.
10.
Can I go back to the stable version?
Yes, you can go back to the stable version of macOS from a beta, but the complexity of the process depends on whether the final version of that software has been released yet.
If you are running macOS 27.2 beta and want to return to the current public release of macOS 27, simply turning off Beta Updates will stop future beta installations, but it will not immediately downgrade the Mac. To return before Apple releases an equivalent public build, you may need to erase the Mac and reinstall macOS, then restore data from a backup made before installing the beta.
11.
Should I install the beta on my main Mac?
Installing a macOS beta on your primary computer is generally not recommended due to the inherent risks of using unfinished software. While beta programs offer early access to new features, they are designed for testing and often contain significant bugs that can disrupt your daily workflow.
12.
Do I need an Apple Developer account to install the beta?
You do not need a paid Apple Developer account to install the macOS beta. While access to developer betas was previously restricted to those paying a $99/£79 annual fee, Apple changed this policy in 2023 to allow anyone with a free developer account to access these builds. Alternatively, you can join the Public Beta program, which is also free and accessible to anyone with a valid Apple ID.
13.
How often are new beta versions released?
New macOS beta versions are typically released every one to two weeks, with the frequency increasing as the final public release date approaches. The beta updates refine features and address bugs identified by testers.
14.
Is the macOS beta safe to install?
The beta is generally safe to test, but it may contain bugs that cause crashes, poor battery life, app compatibility issues, or data loss. Always back up your Mac before installing.
15.
Will my apps work with the macOS beta?
Many apps will work normally, but some third-party software may crash, perform poorly, or not launch at all until developers release updates.
Apple unveiled iOS 27 at WWDC on June 8, 2026. It immediately entered a beta-testing phase, and was widely released on September 14.
There are three main sets of features in this update: Siri AI, which is an entirely new Siri architecture with a dedicated Siri app, new features for parental safety, and a big emphasis on system improvements like faster performance and a lot of quality-of-life features users have been asking for.
iOS 27 supports every iPhone back to the iPhone 11 and iPhone SE (2nd generation), although some Apple Intelligence and Siri features will require newer hardware.
This hub covers everything Apple has confirmed for iOS 27, including new features, compatible iPhones, beta updates, Apple Intelligence improvements and what’s changing with Siri. We also cover notable discoveries from the beta and the latest updates following the launch.
What’s New in iOS 27 at a Glance
Siri AI: Apple’s new Siri AI combines personal context, onscreen awareness and web knowledge to deliver more natural conversations, richer answers, app actions and cross-device chat history.
Apple Intelligence across apps: Apple Intelligence expands across Safari, Photos, Messages, Mail, Calendar, Home and Shortcuts, adding smarter suggestions, automation, image generation and context-aware assistance.
Smarter Photos editing: Photos gains Spatial Reframing, Extend and an upgraded Clean Up tool, allowing users to improve composition, expand images and remove distractions more naturally.
Child safety and parental controls: New parental controls include Ask to Browse, Time Allowances, app schedules and enhanced Communication Safety tools designed to give parents more control.
System Improvements: Apple has made many system operations faster and more efficient, which will be especially noticeable on older phones. Battery life may be longer, and there are dozens of small quality-of-life improvements throughout the system and its apps.
iOS 27 release date: When did Apple release iOS 27?
September 14, 2026
Apple made iOS 27 widely available on September 14 at around 10am Pacific Time.
iOS 27 beta – What’s coming next?
Latest beta: iOS 27.2 – it appears Apple will only use the iOS 27.1 number for the iPhone Duo’s release.
The iOS 27.2 beta was released on September 16. It includes or may introduce the following:
Redesigned Health app with AI-powered health insights.
Bug fixes and performance improvements addressing issues in iOS 27.
Additional Siri AI languages, including French, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese and Spanish.
Suggested replies in Messages, previously removed before iOS 27 launched.
Automatic password changes for compromised passwords.
What features are still to come in iOS 27
At the time of the launch of iOS 27 not all of Apple’s promised features were available. Missing features include:
Redesigned Health app: A completely redesigned Health app with AI-powered health insights is coming later in 2026.
Additional Siri AI languages: Siri AI launched in English only. French, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese and Spanish are due in October.
Smarter suggested replies in Messages: Suggested replies that better reflect the user’s writing style appeared during beta testing but were removed before the public release.
Automatic password changes: The ability for the Passwords app to visit supported websites and automatically replace compromised passwords was removed shortly before release.
SynthID identification for AI images: Apple said support for adding SynthID identification to most AI-generated or edited images would arrive in a software update later in 2026.
Siri AI in iOS 27
Apple
By far the biggest upgrade in iOS 27 is Siri AI – an entirely new architecture for Siri. Apple says it is more personal, conversational, and capable than the current assistant, with support for natural follow-up questions, personal context, onscreen awareness and up-to-date information from the web.
Siri AI features
More natural conversations: Siri AI can understand open-ended questions, follow-up requests and more complex natural language, making interactions feel less like issuing simple voice commands.
Personal context: Siri can draw on information stored in Messages, Mail, Photos and Notes to find details and answer questions. For example, you could ask it to find information buried in an old email or message.
Onscreen awareness: Siri can understand what you’re viewing and act on it, such as saving an address from a message, adding an event to Calendar or answering questions about an article.
Camera intelligence: A new Siri Camera mode lets you show Siri something through the iPhone’s camera, then ask questions or perform actions based on what it sees.
More capable app actions: Siri can perform tasks within apps such as Messages, Music and Reminders. It can, for example, edit a recently sent message, add a song to a playlist or handle more complex Apple Music requests.
Better general knowledge and web answers: Siri can use information from the web to answer questions about recent events and tackle more specific or complicated queries than before.
Conversation history across devices: A dedicated Siri app lets users revisit previous conversations, pin important chats and continue conversations across Apple devices using iCloud syncing.
More natural Siri voices: Siri gains more expressive voices, with controls on compatible devices for adjusting speaking pace and expressiveness. Voice customization requires an iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone Air or newer.
Improved dictation: Better speech recognition, automatic punctuation, capitalization and formatting allow users to dictate more naturally when converting speech into text.
AI-assisted message replies: Siri can compose contextual replies in Messages using the conversation, personal information and web searches. Shortcuts can also automate replies to selected contacts, although manual Siri-assisted replies allow users to check and edit the response before it is sent.
Siri AI represents a significant improvement over the old Siri, particularly when handling conversational questions, current information, and personal context. It also has a dedicated app where you can see and continue previous conversations, upload images or documents, and more.
It’s definitely one of the biggest reasons to upgrade to iOS 27, potentially changing Siri from a basic voice-command system into a more general way of interacting with the iPhone.
Apple’s approach to AI safety also appears more restrained than some rival chatbots, with Siri designed to avoid excessive flattery, pretending to be human, or responding inappropriately to potentially harmful requests.
However, Siri AI is launching as a “beta” feature and still requires a bit of polish. It’s also only available in English at first, with a handful of other languages/regions coming in October with iOS 27.1.
Regional Siri AI availability
Siri AI will not initially be available on iPhone or iPad in the EU. It will also remain unavailable in China while Apple works through regulatory issues. The first release only supports the English language, and initially has Expressive Voices for English (UK) and English (US). Several other languages are coming with the iOS 27.1 update in October.
Siri AI compatibility
Siri AI requires an iPhone 15 Pro or later, and the “new expressive voices” feature requires an iPhone 17 Pro or the new iPhone 18 Pro.
Apple Intelligence across apps
As well as Siri AI, the enhanced Apple Intelligence will power new features in Apple’s core apps throughout iOS 27. Safari can organize tabs into topics, monitor webpages for changes and even build extensions from natural-language descriptions. Photos gains a new Spatial Reframing edit tools including an upgraded Clean Up feature. Messages, Mail, and Calendar can now understand context, suggest actions and create events from simple descriptions.
New features coming to apps in iOS 27
iOS 27 brings a mix of major Apple Intelligence upgrades and smaller quality-of-life improvements across Safari, Photos, Messages, AirPods, Passwords, Wallet, and other core iPhone apps. Apple is also making iOS more adaptable to different screen sizes and orientations, which are changes necessary for the iPhone Duo.
Safari
Safari can automatically group open tabs into topics, making related pages easier to find. A new Notify Me feature will monitor webpages and alert you to changes such as price drops or products coming back into stock.
There’s also a new Describe an Extension feature which lets users create custom Safari extensions simply by explaining what they want the extension to do.
Reframe can alter the composition and perspective of an existing photo, while Extend generates new image content beyond the original frame when straightening a horizon or changing the aspect ratio.
Apple
Clean Up has also been improved, with Fast and High Quality modes for removing unwanted objects or details. High Quality mode can produce considerably more natural results, although more ambitious edits can still introduce distortions or invented details.
Photos also adds new categories and the ability to save a frame from a video as a full-resolution photo. The resulting HEIF or JPG retains the video’s original resolution, date, and location metadata rather than simply creating a screenshot.
Camera
iOS 27 features a new more customizable camera interface that lets you pin the controls you use most often. For the iPhone 18 Pro, there are also “pro controls” like white balance, shutter speed, and manual focus along with Apple Reference Image, an authentication system designed to prove that a photo or video was genuinely captured on an iPhone and has not subsequently been manipulated.
The new Siri mode in the Camera app is a more convenient and logical way to access the Visual Intelligence features that used to require either a long-press of the camera button or a Control Center button.
Messages
Foundry
Messages gets several useful improvements.
You can decide what the microphone button beside the text field does. Under Settings > Apps > Messages > Show in Text Field, it can be set to Record Audio, Start Dictation, or None. Disabling it does not remove either feature: dictation remains available from the keyboard and audio messages remain in the + menu.
Voice-message playback controls are easier to access, while Apple Intelligence can suggest actions based on a conversation, such as creating a reminder, making a note, or finding relevant photos.
Messages in iOS 27 will gains smarter suggested replies that can better reflect the user’s writing style. (This was removed from the iOS 27 beta and wasn’t available at the launch of iOS 27).
Drawing
Foundry
A new dedicated Drawing app replaces the old hidden handwriting interface. Accessible from the + menu, it uses the familiar pens, colours and drawing controls found in Notes and Markup, with finished drawings sent as images.
Mail
Mail gains more context-aware smart replies, including responses that can better match the user’s usual writing style.
Apple Intelligence can also surface information from Mail elsewhere in iOS. For example, the Phone app could retrieve a flight confirmation number from an email when you call an airline.
Phone
A new Call Context feature can surface information that may be useful when on a call. Apple says the information is selected according to who you are calling rather than by listening to the conversation. For example, calling an airline could cause iOS to surface the relevant flight confirmation from Mail.
Birthday reminders can also appear when calling contacts whose birthdays are stored on the iPhone.
FaceTime
FaceTime gains Dual Capture, allowing the front and rear cameras to be used at the same time during a call.
Passwords
Passwords in iOS 27 will fix things for you.
Apple
The Passwords app continues to warn about weak, reused and compromised credentials, but iOS 27 will go a step further by offering to fix some of them automatically.
Using Apple Intelligence, Passwords can visit supported websites, change a vulnerable password and save the replacement credentials. See: Apple got rid of my biggest password headache.
The usefulness of the feature will depend on how widely websites are supported and how well it handles obstacles such as two-factor authentication and unusual account-management interfaces.
Apple removed this ability to detect compromised passwords and replace them from the beta shortly before the release of iOS 27. It’s expected to arrive with a later update.
Shortcuts
Shortcuts gains Describe a Shortcut, allowing users to create automations simply by explaining what they want to happen.
Apple Intelligence interprets the request and assemble the appropriate actions across supported apps, potentially making Shortcuts significantly easier to use for people unfamiliar with building automations manually.
Calendar
Calendar can create or modify events from natural-language instructions.
Apple says the app can recognize contacts, locations, dates and other event details as users type, reducing the amount of information that needs to be entered manually.
Siri can also create complete Calendar entries for information that is on your screen in that moment, or by taking a picture with the Siri mode in the Camera app.
Image Playground
Image Playground is considerably more powerful and realistic.
Apple says it can create photorealistic images and lets users modify generated pictures simply by describing the changes they want. Individual objects can also be selected, resized, or repositioned.
AI-generated images will include a SynthID watermark identifying them as synthetic content. This particular feature wasn’t available at launch, but Apple has confirmed it is coming later.
Wallet
Wallet can create custom passes from QR codes.
Users can add their own fields and information to the pass, and passes automatically sync to Apple Watch.
Weather
Weather gets a clearer, more detailed forecast interface, with rearranged information tiles and new 10-day views showing precipitation probability/amount and wind speed throughout each day.
Home app
Apple Intelligence comes to the Home app for compatible HomeKit Secure Video cameras. It can group related camera notifications, describe recorded video and highlight clips that appear particularly noteworthy.
Maps
Apple Maps improves Flyover using higher-quality aerial imagery and Visual Intelligence models.
Apple says this produces sharper architectural detail and more realistic rendering of elements such as individual trees.
Podcasts
Video podcasts become easier to use, with improved controls for switching between watching a podcast and simply listening to it.
Fitness
Workout summaries have been redesigned to make them easier to share.
Users can also hide completed Fitness+ workouts.
iOS 27 changes beyond the iPhone
CarPlay
CarPlay gains an audio scrubber, giving drivers and passengers more direct control when moving through audio tracks and other content.
A new Custom EQ lets users independently adjust bass, mids and treble using a simple three-band equalizer under Settings > AirPods > Audio and Routing > Equalizer > Custom.
Compatible AirPods also gain improved Precision Finding through Find My, making individual earbuds easier to locate.
Some features require both iOS 27 and compatible AirPods firmware.
It’s not only individual apps that are seeing changes.
Home Screen and landscape mode
Apple is making iOS significantly more flexible when dealing with different screen orientations and sizes.
More Apple apps now work properly in landscape, including Health, Home, Music, Weather, and Watch. Dynamic Island and Live Activities can also adapt to landscape orientation. The Home Screen supports extra-large widgets.
These changes could simply improve iPhone usability, but they’re also well suited to Apple’s folding iPhone Duo.
iPhone Mirroring in macOS 27 has similarly become freely resizable, with Apple apps dynamically rearranging their interfaces as the window changes shape.
Liquid Glass refinements
Apple
Apple says Liquid Glass has been refined for better readability, more uniform refraction and improved contrast. A new slider lets users adjust the look from ultraclear to fully tinted, while updated icons, toolbars, sidebars and window shapes add polish.
Instead of one combined Ringtone and Alerts slider, users can independently adjust:
Ringtones
Alarms and timers
Alerts and system sounds
The change is optional. Under Settings > Sounds & Haptics, turning off Match Ringtone Volume reveals separate controls.
Media and call volume continue to work independently as before.
Keyboard
iOS 27 introduces a new quick-paste control above the keyboard.
It lets you paste recently copied text, images or screenshots without having to long-press inside a text field, making everyday copy-and-paste considerably faster.
Apple has also made the Liquid Glass keyboard design more consistent across apps.
Privacy and Find My
iOS 27 introduces the ability to temporarily pause Find My location sharing without notifying the person with whom the location is normally shared.
Recovery and troubleshooting
Apple is also expanding the iPhone’s recovery interface, giving users more options for diagnosing problems and recovering an iPhone without immediately connecting it to another device.
System changes and how iOS 27 makes your iPhone faster
Alongside the headline AI features, Apple says iOS 27 includes a wide range of under-the-hood improvements designed to make iPhones faster, smoother and more efficient.
Apps can launch up to 30% faster, newly taken photos can appear in the Photos library up to 70% faster, and AirDrop transfers can be up to 80% quicker. External drive transfers should also improve, while updates to network performance and the system-wide search index are designed to make connectivity and finding information faster.
The company has also reworked core technologies including CPU scheduling, display performance and processing efficiency. These changes should benefit older iPhones in particular, with Apple promising smoother performance and more efficient battery use on devices as old as the iPhone 11 and second-generation iPhone SE.
Our testing of the iOS 27 beta supports those claims. On an iPhone 11 Pro Max, Camera launch time fell from 0.98 seconds in iOS 26 to 0.65 seconds in iOS 27, while Maps improved from 3.01 seconds to 1.36 seconds.
Everyday use also feels smoother, with more fluid animations, unlocking, Control Center and app transitions. The phone ran cooler during testing too, which could point to improved system efficiency and potentially better battery performance.
More broadly, iOS 27 appears focused on refinement rather than simply adding new features. Apple says it has addressed dozens of common user frustrations, while changes such as more adjustable Liquid Glass effects are intended to improve readability and general usability.
That focus should make iOS 27 particularly worthwhile for owners of older iPhones, even on models that do not support Siri AI. Those devices still gain performance improvements alongside features such as clipboard tools for the keyboard, independent alarm and timer volume controls, custom Wallet passes, Photos changes, larger widgets, and Liquid Glass refinements.
Child safety and parental controls
Apple
There are lots of improvements to parental controls, including new time allowances for entertainment, games, and social media, and new schedule tools for different times of day or days of the week.
This includes new features like an expansion of the existing “ask to buy” feature for apps to websites. Before a child can view a new website, they’ll have to ask for permission.
Ask to Browse: Ask to Browse will expand the current Ask to Buy feature to the web. Children will need to request permission before visiting new websites, and parents can review requests in Messages before approving.
Communication Safety: Communication Safety continues to help protect children from viewing or sharing nudity in Messages, FaceTime and other apps. Apple says it will also intervene before children see gore or violent content in shared images and videos.
Time Allowances and schedules: Parents can set Time Allowances across categories such as Entertainment, Games and Social Media. Recommendations are based on a child’s age combined with guidance from clinical and child development experts. Schedules let parents choose which apps are available at different times or on different days.
Redesigned Screen Time: Screen Time gets a redesigned interface with an at-a-glance view of average device usage and most-used apps. Apple says parents can quickly limit or extend access in the moment.
Child accounts and family safety: Apple says child accounts remain central to age-appropriate protections. Parents can manage app access, web access, communication permissions and Screen Time settings.
Apple says it is working with the American Academy of Pediatrics to adapt its Family Media Plan.
Accessibility changes in iOS 27
Accessibility features are smarter and more intuitive in iOS 27:
VoiceOver gives richer image descriptions and better understanding of onscreen content.
Live Recognition lets users press the Action button to ask questions about their surroundings and receive detailed responses.
Voice Control is more intuitive, allowing users to describe onscreen buttons and controls rather than remembering exact coordinate labels or numbers.
Accessibility Reader is able to handle more complex source material and provide summaries and translation.
iOS 27 compatibility
iPhone 11 is supported by iOS 27.
Roman Loyola/IDG
According to Apple, iOS 27 supports iPhones back to the iPhone 11 and second-generation iPhone SE, although some Apple Intelligence and Siri AI features require newer hardware.
Support for iOS 27 does not mean every device gets every feature. Apple Intelligence and Siri AI require an iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 16 or later, while the most advanced on-device AI models require an iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone Air, or iPhone 18 Pro. On iPad, Apple Intelligence requires an M1-class model or the A17 Pro iPad mini, while the newest on-device models require an M4 iPad with at least 12GB of RAM.
There had been speculation that the iPhone 11 series and iPhone SE 2 would miss out on iOS 27 after leaker Instant Digital claimed on Weibo that the 2019 iPhone 11, 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max, along with the 2020 iPhone SE 2, would no longer be supported. That prediction proved incorrect, giving those models at least one more year of software support.
However, the iPhone 11 generation is nearing the end of its support life. As we explain in our guide to how long Apple supports iPhones, the iPhone 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max have already been added to Apple’s Vintage iPhone list.
The main dividing line for Apple Intelligence remains the iPhone 15 Pro generation: the standard iPhone 15 and all older models can run iOS 27, but they do not support Apple Intelligence.
FAQ
1.
When was iOS 27 released?
iOS 27 was released on September 14, 2026.
2.
Which iPhones get iOS 27?
The iPhone 11 and iPhone SE 2 and newer get iOS 27. However, Siri AI and other Apple Intelligence features require iPhone 15 Pro or newer, and the new more expressive Siri voices feature requires iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro, or newer.
3.
Which iPhones will get Siri AI and Apple Intelligence in iOS 27?
The only iPhones that can run Siri AI are the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max and any newer generation. If you have a standard iPhone 15 then you won’t get Siri AI and Apple Intelligence.
Just a couple days after the wide release of iOS 27, Apple has released the first beta of iOS 27.2. That’s not a typo: it’s iOS 27.2, not 27.1. We never saw a 27.1 release, but Apple is beginning beta tests for the 27.2 branch.
This likely has something to do with the iPhone Duo, which is going on sale in October. We know the iPhone Duo will come with iOS 27.1, but we don’t yet know if any other devices will ever get a 27.1 update, or when all the devices will get on the same version together.
What’s new in iOS 27.2
As beta testers report new capabilities in this version, we’ll report them here.
New Health app: The 27.2 beta includes the new Health app, with a totally new redesign and AI-powered health insights.
Siri AI languages: Apple said that Siri AI, which launched supporting only U.S. English, will expand to French, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, and Spanish in October.
Messages suggestions: A feature of the iOS 27 beta that was cut for the full release, the feature that suggests replies in Messages may return in 27.2.
Automatically fix passwords: Another feature cut just before the final iOS 27 release is the ability to automatically fix compromised passwords. That might return in 27.2 as well.
iOS 27.2: How to install the public beta
If you want to test the iOS 27 beta releases but are not a registered developer, follow these steps:
Click Sign Up on the Apple Beta page and register with your Apple ID.
Log in to the Beta Software Program.
Click Enroll your iOS device.
Open the Settings app, tap General, then Software Update.
In the Beta Updates section, select the iOS Public Beta.
It may take a few moments after registering for the beta option to appear in Software Update.
iOS 27.2: How to install the developer beta
You’ll need to be registered as an Apple developer, but a free developer account will do. You can get one via Xcode or the Apple Developer app in iOS. Here’s how to do it via the Apple Developer app:
According to a report by The Information, Apple could re-enter the server hardware market. The servers would be targeted at the AI development, with availability starting in 2029.
While Apple’s plans are tentative, the servers have reportedly been in the works for a year. The company has two types of servers centered around M8 Ultra chips, one with two M8 Ultra chips, while another has four M8 Ultras. The Information also reports that Apple could use Nvidia’s NVLInk Fusion technology, which is used for high-speed connections between chips. Nvidia in 2025 opened up NVLink to other companies for use in their servers.
Mac hardware has become very popular with AI developers. Online processing is a vital part of AI, so Apple’s desire to get into the AI server market is a good opportunity for the company. Apple used to sell Xserve, a line of servers, but it was discontinued 15 years ago. When the company discontinued Xserve, it recommended that customers use a Mac Pro or Mac mini, which is a viable solution for a single, stand-alone server or a very small cluster. With AI, however, large server clusters are needed, and companies want the blade form factor that is the standard in the industry.
The M8 Ultra is a few generations beyond the current fastest chip Apple offers, the M5 Ultra. The M5 Ultra is found only in the Mac Studio and requires a two-pound cooling system. Apple will have to create a cooling system that can fit in a 1U or 2U rack-mount design.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who has previously reported on Apple plans to release an AI server, responded to the report by stating that Apple could be using the M7 Ultra in its server for 2029, but it’s also possible Apple “is doing M8 Ultra simultaneously.”
You waited months for Apple’s new iPhones to arrive, but it’s worth protecting that investment from day one. The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are tougher than previous generations, but they can still be scratched, chipped or damaged in a drop. A good case also does more than protect your phone: it can improve grip, add a stand or wallet, support MagSafe accessories and give your iPhone a completely different look.
There are hundreds of iPhone cases to choose from, ranging from inexpensive silicone shells to rugged cases built for serious drop protection. Price isn’t always a reliable guide to quality, either: a cheap case can split, yellow or develop faulty buttons, while spending more doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get the best case for your needs.
That’s why we test and compare as many iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max cases as we can. We consider protection, materials, build quality, grip, raised screen and camera edges, MagSafe compatibility, weight, useful extras such as stands and card storage, and how the case feels in everyday use. Where manufacturers make specific drop-protection claims, we include those too so you can compare different levels of protection.
In this guide we’ve grouped our recommendations into clear, colorful, protective and leather or faux-leather cases, with options at a range of prices. Our recommendations balance protection with practicality rather than simply favoring the toughest or most expensive case, so whether you want something slim and unobtrusive, highly protective or simply more stylish, you should be able to find the right case here.
Many consumers damage their devices each year, with cracked, chipped or shattered screens the leading reason for iPhone repairs. A screen protector is an important first line of defense, but a case with a raised edge can much better protect the display from everyday knocks and drops, and tough sides and back will reduce the risk of damage from an accidental fall.
Ceramic Shield 2, introduced with the iPhone 17 generation, protects the front of the iPhone 18 Pro and offers three times better scratch resistance than the iPhone 16 Pro. The back uses Ceramic Shield, which Apple says offers four times better crack resistance than the back glass used on earlier models.
The 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max are the best-protected iPhones yet, but a case is still worth buying. It helps keep that pristine finish looking new and, when it’s time to trade up, a well-protected iPhone can retain far more resale value than the cost of the case itself.
Which type of iPhone case to choose
Apple gives you a handful of finishes; a case gives you thousands—an easy way to make an iPhone 18 look like yours. You can choose a clear case that shows off the iPhone’s original color but adds vital protection, or choose a case with more personality. Protection is key, and some cases will add higher levels of defense than others.
Material matters too: silicone for grip and everyday feel, leather or vegan-leather for a refined look, Graphene (elastic yet harder than diamond and up to 200x stronger than steel, according to case makers) or Kevlar (the material used to make bulletproof vests) for serious durability. Kevlar is a type of Aramid Fiber, a strong, heat-resistant synthetic material that gives the material incredible strength and stability. Beyond looks, think about how you use your phone. Want hands-free video? Look for a case with a built-in stand. Want to leave your wallet at home? Choose one with card storage. And if you charge wirelessly, check for MagSafe compatibility — most cases now offer it, and it’s worth confirming before you buy.
Best clear cases for iPhone 18
If you want to keep your iPhone 18 Pro or iPhone 18 Pro Max looking like Apple intended you could leave it unprotected without a case, or simply choose a clear case that shows off the iPhone’s color while protecting it from everyday knocks and drops.
Apple iPhone 18 Pro Clear Case – Premium clear case
This simple, rigid iPhone 18 protective case from Apple is thin and light. The point of clear cases is that they shouldn’t disguise the color of your iPhone that you chose when you purchased it. However, Apple’s Clear Case has a prominent white MagSafe ring that aligns with the charging coil beneath the iPhone’s Ceramic Shield back. It’s white whatever color of iPhone 18 Pro or Max that you own—it’s a shame Apple didn’t color-match this to each phone but that would have meant creating four different versions. To be fair, it’s less obtrusive than the Apple’s Clear Case for iPhone 17 Pro.
The Apple Clear Case is made from a blend of optically clear polycarbonate and other flexible materials, with a scratch-resistant coating on both the inside and outside. While it’s more protective than silicone cases and features a robust-looking 2mm camera lip, you can find tougher cases, which we have reviewed below.
Zagg Crystal Palace & Santa Cruz Cases – Quality family of clear cases
Zagg has a number of popular scratch-resistant clear case models, including the Crystal Palace Snap, available with and without a kickstand) and a simpler Lite option without MagSafe and lower but still impressive drop protection. Zagg’s ClearGuard tech reduces the yellowing that affects many clear cases surprisingly quickly.
The Crystal Palace Snap ($54.99 / £39.99 with kickstand, $49.99 / £34.99 without) has textured sides for better grip, MagSafe, and 13ft drop protection. The Crystal Palace Lite Snap ($39.99 / £24.99) has MagSafe, 10ft drop protection and no kickstand. The entry-level Crystal Palace Lite ($29.99/ £19.99) lacks MagSafe and kickstand but still offers 10ft drop protection.
Both use PC and TPU, but the construction is fundamentally different. The premium Crystal Palace Snap uses a single, solid piece of PC across the back and sides to create a harder, more scratch-resistant clear case, with TPU used strategically so that there are no seams between the back and sides. The Lite version uses significantly more TPU, relying on a PC back plate combined with flexible, TPU sides. That makes it lighter and less expensive, but more susceptible to yellowing over time than PC.
Adding metallic accents, the Graphene-fortified Zagg Santa Cruz ($59.99 / £44.99 with kickstand, $54.99 / £39.99 without) gives the clear case an elegant edge and vibrancy with 13ft drop protection, MagSafe and kickstand.
The Mous Clarity clear case shows off the device beneath with a UV anti-yellowing finish. In the corners, AiroShock protection is a defense against drop impacts. The scratch-resistant layer is molded into the panel itself, not merely sprayed on top.
You can buy as the clearest non-MagSafe ($64.99 / £54.99) or MagSafe compatible with logo ($69.99 / £59.99), in a Black frame or Stone. For extra customization, you can mix and match your case with different colors of metal kickstand, camera guard and metal buttons.
Best colorful cases for iPhone 18
Apple’s choice of iPhone 18 Pro colors is, shall we say, limited. Burgundy is nice but it’s no Cosmic Orange, and third-party case designers have had a lot more fun so you can personalize your new iPhone from a choice of thousands—from simple silicone cases to some pretty crazy designs.
Apple iPhone 18 Pro Silicone Case – Apple's soft touch case
If you’ve got any money left after shelling out for the latest iPhone, Apple will gladly take it for one of its own iPhone 18 cases. Its Silicone Case comes in six fetching colors. Apple’s silky, soft-touch silicone case for iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max feels great. On the inside, there’s a soft microfiber lining for softer device protection.
There’s no ugly MagSafe block as found on Apple’s Clear Case as the silicone case creates its own choice of colors. The Silicone colors for the iPhone 17 range were more vibrant—but we like the 18 Pro’s punchy Magenta pink, in case Burgundy is just too dark for your tastes.
Casely Cases for iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max – Hundreds of colorful designs
Casely makes several types of case for the iPhone 18 Pro series. The Classic case is lighter, slimmer and more flexible with a glossy finish (1mm raised screen and camera edges), while the Bold case is more protective (with 8-foot drop protection) and comes with a matte finish and 3mm raised edge. The Align cases offer an even more premium defense, with claimed 10ft drop protection na d a soft-touch grip, and
There are nearly 500 designs to choose from. Some I wouldn’t dare take out of my pocket but everybody’s different, right? There are psychedelic patterns, Beatles cases, plain/plaid/gingham/checkerboard/mirrored/marbled cases, impressionist cases and some just plain crazy styles.
Casely also offers Grippy, a silicone suction phone mount with MagSafe that securely fastens to flat, glossy surfaces such as mirrors and windows for hands-free photo and video shooting or browsing.
Casetify iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Cases – Customizable cases for everyone
Fancy making your iPhone 18 Pro look like an old-school camera, or feature ripple or cloud effects, cartoons, Spiderman, drunk cats, polka dots, stars, and more?
Not only does Casetify have an enormous range of thousands of iPhone case designs, but it offers many with different levels of protection: the slim Impact Case (for everyday defense of up to 8.2-foot drop protection); Ultra Impact Case (heavy duty with extra corner cushioning, thicker bumpers, and more pronounced raised edges, for up to 11.5ft drops); and Bounce & Ultra Bounce Cases (even stronger shock-absorption tech, with up to 32.8-foot drop protection).
You can also choose to include an integrated camera ring that flips out as a stand when you need it and folds flat when you don’t.
Casetify
Maybe the most bizarre/fun case for the iPhone 18 Pro/Max is the Casetify Cloud Case, pictured above. Built with a premium soft-touch silicone, and offering 6.6ft. drop protection, this case features a Michelin-Man-like protective puffed bumper and body with an ergonomic grip. The raised bezel from the screen is a mighty 2.1mm with 2.4mm raised camera ring. Available in Cotton, White, Sky Blue, and Marshmellow Pink, it is sadly not MagSafe compatible as most of the other Casetify cases are.
Zagg Milan, Luxe and Sedona Cases for iPhone 18 Pro – Fashionable yet protective cases
Zagg embraces fashion with its Milan range of iPhone cases, from ethereal waves to polka dots with many varied styles to choose from—we are particularly taken by Ethereal Wave and Essence. The Milan case can be purchased with or without a kickstand but all are MagSafe compatible, with a textured grip and 13ft drop protection.
The Sedona series of cases feature more deep, muted tones than the sometimes wild Milan, but still with super-tough 16ft drop protection. It comes with a secure grip and kickstand option.
The Luxe Case features lesser but still effective 10ft drop protection and is made from 100% post-consumer recycled materials in a handful of diverse colorways.
Nomad Sport Case – Smooth and grippy at the same time
The minimalist Sport Case features both a satin-smooth backplate and grippy bumpers to make it less easy to accidentally drop but still easy to pull from a pocket. Interchangeable Stellar Orange buttons are included
With 2.2mm thick bumpers, its drop protection is 8 feet—so perfect for placing on the top of your head even if you are very tall.
ESR Classic Hybrid Case for iPhone 18 Pro – Affordable protection with great flexible stand
ESR’s Classic Hybrid Case for the iPhone 18 Pro series offers a clear or frosted TPU, PC and acrylic body that offers super-robust 16-foot drop protection plus an adjustable Flex stand that is an effective zinc-alloy camera-lens guard when not acting as the stable stand.
On top of the varied color options, stand and protective functions, it is attractively priced. The Clear version of the ESR Classic Hybrid Case is best if you want to stick to Apple’s original iPhone color, and the MagSafe logo is much less obtrusive than on Apple’s own Clear Case.
OtterBox Figura and Lumen iPhone 18 Pro Cases – Smooth, minimalist cases
A simple minimalist iPhone 18 Pro series case, the OtterBox Figura Case is the brand’s most affordable case while still offering a covered camera plateau and raised edges, plus MagSafe compatibility. It has a soft, smooth texture, and we like the plain but Apple-simple Crema color (first pictured above)—although there are a bunch to choose from.
The similar but lower-profile OtterBox Lumen Case (Black only, shown on right of the picture above) is the lightest at just 34g. As with the Figura case, drop protection is down to 1x but that should still save you from casual drops and knocks. The OtterBox Commuter (3x), Sole (5x), and Defender Pro (7x) also reviewed here offer higher levels of drop protection.
Torras Ostand cases – Punchy looks and great stand
Aside from its stellar array of fun color choices, what (ahem) stands out about the Torras Ostand range of iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max cases is its 360° precision Ostand that rotates all the way around for stable hands-free support. Turning it can get addictive like with a fidget spinner.
The cases themselves are well built and come in all sorts of hues. Hats off to the naming teams for color titles such as Dusk Purple, Violet Summit, Polar Slate, Amber Brown, Raspberry Mist, Moon Jellyfish, Blueish Mint, and more. The cases aren’t just fun to look at, they feel great in the hand, too.
You’ll need a while to inspect the whole range, which offers maybe too many models to choose from. These include the entry-level Ostand Q3 Spin (also available as a clear case), with claimed 8ft drop protection and raised screen and camera guards. The Ostand Q3 Air Pro is my favorite—it has an anti-slip side texture to improve hand grip, Air Pro Tech protection with a dual-layer airbag system (Air Duet) that absorbs impact in stages: the outer airbag intercepts impact, while the inner airbag disperses residual shock. It claims 16.4ft drop protection.
Torras
The Ostand Q3 VegSkin features a “refined leather-inspired” touch, the Ostand Gradient Air available in Dusk Haze, Alaska Aurora, or Arizona Glow, and the Ostand Q3 Air Football Limited (pictured above) has options that match national soccer jerseys, including USA, Argentina, England, Portugal, and Germany.
Mous Printed Collabs cases – Clear case with printed designs
You can order from Mous’s wide range of designs, printed on durable, rigid iPhone 18 Pro/Max cases with the company’s AiroShock tech, similar to the company’s Clarity clear cases but with less of the iPhone’s original color showing through—these designs are more fun. Choose from Stripes and Checks, Floral, Animal Prints, Polka Dots, Serpent, Fruits, and our favorite Deconstruct that acts as if you can see the circuitry inside your iPhone.
Burga iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max cases – Stylish fade-resistant designs
Another enormous range of designs is available from Burga, a favorite of my daughter. There are over 500 to choose from, so give your self time to scroll. There are also three different case types: Tough, Elite, and Elite Mirror. Tough is a classic glossy, lightweight hard shell case, while the Elite features higher end structural benefits—including CloudGuard shock absorption, microfibre lining, and improved side grips. The Elite Mirror a reflective surface and premium metallic camera bezels. Burga has another case type called the Puffy Elite that has a squishy texture made with a soft, bouncy, and touchable exterior, but there were no puffy cases for the 18-series at the time of writing.
Best protective cases for iPhone 18
As pretty as some iPhone cases are, your principal consideration should be protection. Most decent cases offer reasonable protection, but these protective cases have extra robust features while often adding as little bulk as possible by using the latest, strongest materials. Kevlar is the material used to make bulletproof vests—it’s also known as Aramid Fiber. Graphene is even stronger.
Other protective iPhone cases don’t worry so much about thinness, and bulk up to protect your iPhone from the worst disasters that can befall it. These might suit you if you work in riskier environments or are an active outdoors iPhone user.
You have to work to get the maximum protection for your iPhone. You construct the OtterBox Defender Pro cases for iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max from either two or three protective pieces. OtterBox claims it has been tested to 7x military-grade protection levels. The slimmer two-part Defender Pro XT case remains reasonably thin but lacks the grippier sides of the three-part non-XT model. Its back is clear, although some versions have a pattern on top.
Both feature shock-absorbing corners that don’t bulge out too much as on some ultra-protective cases. The final third layer on the Defender Pro provides grippy sides and back to help prevent phone drops in the first place.
These cases include a cover for the USB-C charging port to stop fluff and other debris entering and causing charging problems down the line.
With 5x military-grade protection, the OtterBox Sole Case is a one-part design with a high-ridge tread around the case edge that feels rugged and adds grip. There’s an Xtra Hot Pink version for adventurous pinkies, who will also appreciate its removable, colorful finger loop.
OtterBox
Also highly protective, the OtterBox Commuter Case, pictured above, comes with a new retractable finger grip that tucks away flat when you don’t need it and opens with a single finger when you do ($59.99) and without ($49.99). Military-grade protection is down from 7x to a still-impressive 3x as commuters are less at risk of wandering into combat zones on the way to the office. It’s a slimmer dual-layer design with an inner rubber cover to absorb impacts and a rigid outer shell for bangs and scrapes, and again the charging port is covered. Also available at Amazon.
Zagg Rainier and Teton Cases for iPhone 18 Pro – Extreme 22-foot drop protection
Zagg has two super-protective cases, each with 22ft drop protection. Both the Rainier and Teton cases are put together in a two-piece construction with reinforced frame and rugged case with impact-absorbing bumpers. Both feature a dual-orientation kickstand that lies flush with the case when folded in.
In terms of looks, the Teton has a plainer design and the Rainier is colored on the sides and edges. The difference is also pronounced at the vulnerable edges with the Ranier boasting a 2.75mm raised edge around the screen compared to the Teton’s shorter 2mm.
Zagg markets its Teton iPhone case as engineered for harsh environments and rough terrain, and it comes with a holster for outdoor carrying.
Rokform Rugged and Crystal – Nothing looks tougher
Available only in black (Rugged Case) and a black and barely clear (Crystal Case) Rokform’s cases for the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max appear to have only one thing on their minds, and that’s super protection—but they’re actually more clever than that. For protection, few cases look as tough—the build pairs a shock-absorbing TPU inner shell with a rigid polycarbonate outer shell and reinforced corners that push impact away from the screen and camera for true 360-degree defense. The sides are textured for better grip. There’s undoubtedly added bulk but it still adds only 4.15mm thickness.
If you want to see a little of the iPhone’s own color, the Crystal Case has the same defensive highlights but a semi-clear design.
On the tough back of each case, the company’s RokLock twist-lock system attaches to a full range of bike, motorcycle and vehicle mounts.
Nomad’s most protective iPhone 18 case is the aptly named Rugged Case. It has a combination of durable polycarbonate frame with fortified corner bumpers to protect your iPhone 18 from all angles. Drop protection is an impressive 15 feet, in case you like taking your iPhone out while climbing ladders or leaning out of windows.
The backs feature eye-catching topographic maps based on Californian watersports spots famous for surfing and kiteboarding.
ESR Cyber Tough Magnetic Case – Solid colors, solid stand, solid design
ESR’s most robust case is the Cyber Tough for the iPhone 18 Pro series. Drop protection is upped to 26 feet with its triple-layer shockproof structure featuring a rigid PC back, flexible TPE bumper, and PORON foam to absorb and disperse impacts.
The adjustable Flex stand pulls out from the zinc-alloy camera-lens guard. Despite being so tough, the case is still available in a wide range of colors including a striking orange.
Mous offers a range of protective cases to its iPhone 18 Pro series range, with its flagship Limitless Case, plus slimmer Aramid Fiber Ultra Thin and Super Thin cases.
Limitless (from $69.99) is available in a range of colors and styles including the famous Mous Walnut finish, Black Leather, Speckled and of course Dark Cherry for the iPhone 18 Pro and Max. Other colors include Marine and Sky (different shades of blue) Stone, and Sage (green). The Limitless case is built from stiff, interlocking AiroShock impact-absorbing materials that reduce torsion or twisting during impact, adding structural rigidity. During purchase you can swap in a Camera Guard (sold separately) for full camera-bump coverage, or a Camera Kickstand for hands-free viewing. You can also upgrade to sandblasted and anodized, machined aluminum buttons to color match your case.
Mous offers a Super Thin Case (with 1.3mm sides and 2mm back, and slightly lower 1.2mm raised screen edge) plus the lightweight 30g Ultra Thin Aramid Case (0.7mm sides and 1.7mm back) made from a material more commonly found in ballistic protection.
We mentioned the Torras Ostand cases earlier, and all offer decent everyday protection and more, but the Ostand Rugged likes to think of itself as the best when it comes to top-line defense. It is built with a flexible TPU bumper, dual-layer TPU air cushions at the top and bottom, 1.4 mm raised bezel around the screen, and a rigid 3mm rubberized matte PC back panel for impact protection and more comfortable grip. The Island Blue and Sunrise White colorways make it stand out from other super-tough iPhone 18 cases.
Pitaka Cairn, Summa and Edge Cases – Aramid Fibre patterns
Pitaka is known for its tough woven aramid fiber cases with a pleasant silky-smooth texture. Distinctive colors include Sunset Moment, California Dream and Twilight and Midnight patterns, but there are also plainer and latticed patterns to choose from.
The Pitaka Cairn Case is the toughest, made from a combination of aramid fiber and shock-absorbing TPU. The four corners feature an arched design that creates space around the phone, acting like built-in air cushions. On impact, they should deform to absorb shock.
The sleek Pitaka Summa Case has a slightly slimmer profile but the robust same aramid fiber shell.
The super-thin Pitaka Edge Case leaves more of the sides exposed but still offers solid protection despite being only just over 1mm thick and weighing less than 20g. It uses what Pitaka calls Mammoth Resin fused with the aramid fiber to reinforce structural integrity.
Best leather and faux-leather cases for iPhone 18
Looking for a more luxurious look? There are many fine leather cases, more animal-friendly vegan leathers, and cases made from fully recycled materials such as Apple’s own TechWoven fabric made from 100 percent recycled polyester.
Nomad Leather Cases – Traditional, Modern, Clear, Back
Nomad has four different types of leather cases for the iPhone 18 Pro series.
The Traditional Leather Case is available in Camino or Horween leathers with a full wrap from sides to back. Adding further protection, the Modern Leather Case has a grippy TPU bumper and 8ft drop protection.
The interesting hybrid Clear Leather Case has has a clear polycarbonate body that’s UV-blocking to stop yellowing, but also a leather back that hides the MagSafe elements that spoil that Apple Clear Case. If you like your iPhone 18’s color and slimness more than most, the Mag Leather Back is an ultra-thin, precision-cut 2.2mm case-back that snaps on with micro-suction patches and an integrated magnet array. You lose any side protection but gain back the iPhone’s original thin frame.
Apple iPhone 18 Pro TechWoven Case – Apple's leather alternative
Apple has created its own custom technical woven fabric that’s made from 100% recycled polyester. It looks great as it features multiple colored yarns woven together—on a Jacquard loom—that creates a dimensional texture with a rich depth of color. There are six colors to choose from. As with its Silicone Case, Apple’s range is muted rather than vibrant. Look elsewhere for some fun, but TechWoven is certainly lovely to look at.
To give a better grip, the TechWoven Case’s sides are coated with a lightly textured thermoplastic polyurethane.
ESR iPhone 18 Pro Max Atelier Case – Vegan leather, zinc-alloy stand
ESR’s Atelier Case brings a mixture of a refined leather feel with robust protection, with drop protection up to 12 feet via its TPU frame, microfiber lining, and raised edges.
One of its standout features is the Flex Stand that pulls out from the protective camera guard and adjusts from 15° to 69° for easy viewing in either portrait or landscape orientation.
Troubadour Leather Cases – Actual leather with mod option
Previously sold under the Mujjo brand name, the Troubadour Leather Case for iPhone 18 Pro/Pro Max is crafted from full-grain, velour Danish calfskin, vegetable-tanned and processed with waterless DriTan technology. As there are no plastic coatings, the leather acquires a patina over time. Inside there’s a satin-soft Japanese microfiber lining.
Troubadour, which makes some of Macworld’s favorite MacBook bags, also sells a Modular Case model featuring a removable magnetic back panel that allows you to switch between two modes. With the magnetic panel removed, a leather bumper protects the sides and corners while leaving the back of the phone bare. MagSafe accessories, such as the $49 / £49 MagSafe 3 Card Leather Wallet Stand, sit snugly inside the cavity rather than stacking on the back, keeping the profile slim in hand and in your pocket.
Casebellé Vintage Luxe and Timeless Cases – Personalize your leather
Casebellé uses two leathers: Vintage Luxe is vachetta, vegetable-tanned in Tuscany; and Timeless Luxe is Italian nappa full-grain leather. Both are designed to age with a patina. A luxury microfiber lining protects against scratches and dust.
Burgundy is dyed through in the same wine dark red as the iPhone 18 Pro/Max, and deepens with age rather than wearing off the way a coated finish does. Sky Blue matches Apple’s Glacier. We’d have loved Apple to make a Racing Green iPhone just like one of the Casebellé cases.
This case stands out with its personalization options with custom embossing in gold, silver, or blind emboss (up to 4 characters).
FAQ
1.
What is Apple’s Ceramic Shield protection for iPhones?
Apple introduced Ceramic Shield with the iPhone 12 in 2020, developed jointly with glassmaker Corning, and it’s been standard on every iPhone since (excluding the budget SE line).
It’s made by fusing nano-ceramic crystals into glass, then dipping it in molten salt so potassium ions swap places with smaller sodium ions, creating a compressive surface layer that resists cracking. This gave the original iPhone 12 four times better drop performance than the iPhone 11.
Ceramic Shield 2 arrived with the iPhone 17 lineup in 2025, keeping the same crystal-infusion and ion-exchange process but with a refined composition that’s roughly three times more scratch-resistant than the first generation, while retaining similar drop protection. The Pro and Max models of the iPhone 17 and 18 also have Ceramic Shield 2 added to the back of the device.
2.
Why do you need an iPhone case?
Your iPhone is a precision device that lives in an unpredictable world—pockets, bags, countertops, pavement. A case is what stands between an accidental drop and a cracked screen or shattered back. It’s not a small risk either: plenty of new iPhone owners crack a screen within the first ten weeks of ownership (source). The IP68 rating means real dust and water resistance, but that’s a lab result—real life is messier. Add in the daily wear of being pulled in and out of a pocket, plus UV exposure over time, and the damage adds up quietly. A case won’t make your iPhone indestructible, but it absorbs the everyday hits so you don’t end up paying for a repair — or a replacement.
3.
Will the iPhone 18 Pro fit a case for the iPhone 17 Pro?
The iPhone 18 Pro series are virtually identical to the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. Even my iPhone 16 Pro fits in an 18 Pro case, and it works just fine—it looks a bit weird at the back, but otherwise fits nicely. On the other hand, a 17 Pro or 18 Pro wouldn’t fit in a 16 Pro case because of the rear camera positioning. Rokform told Macworld that its iPhone 18 Pro case lineup is compatible with iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro models. However, its older iPhone 17 Pro case lineup is not compatible with iPhone 18 models due to camera plateau design differences. Cases designed with tight tolerances might therefore have a problem as the camera plateau on iPhone 18 Pro/Max is about 0.5mm taller than on iPhone 17 Pro/Max.
Leading case manufacturer OtterBox reports that its iPhone 18 Pro/Max cases are “also compatible with iPhone 17 Pro, so the cases can be used interchangeably between those two models”.
New cases are custom-built for each device to guarantee a perfect fit and protection, so buying a case built specifically for your iPhone model is the safest option. Check our roundup of the Best iPhone 17 Cases and Best iPhone 16 Cases for the older models.
4.
Do I need a screen protector if I use a case?
Yes, it’s still worth using a screen protector even if you have a case, as the two provide different but complementary protection. A case protects the back, corners, and edges of your iPhone, while a screen protector is designed to protect the display itself from scratches and cracks.
Tempered-glass screen protectors can help absorb direct impacts and protect against everyday scratches and abrasions. A case with a raised lip offers some protection if your iPhone lands face down, but it can’t prevent every object or surface from making direct contact with the screen.
5.
What type of iPhone case offers the best protection?
When it comes to maximum protection for your iPhone, the clear winners are rugged cases built with multi-layer materials and military-grade drop ratings. Rugged cases typically combine a hard polycarbonate outer shell with a shock-absorbing TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) inner layer, reinforced corners, and raised edges around both the screen and camera to prevent direct surface contact on drops.
While silicone and leather cases offer decent everyday scratch protection, they simply can’t match the impact resistance of a purpose-built rugged case.
When choosing a protective case, look for:
Raised lip around the front (at least 1mm) to keep the screen safely off surfaces.
Raised camera edge (0.5mm minimum, some go up to 3.6mm).
MIL-STD-810G certification — a U.S. Department of Defense standard for durability.
Reinforced corners for impact absorption.
MagSafe compatibility if you wirelessly charge.
How we test iPhone cases
When we receive new cases, we test them for fit, button feel, grip, MagSafe strength and alignment, raised-edge camera and screen protection, bulk, weight, and day-to-day handling. Where we are unable to test a case ourselves, we assess it based on its specifications and our experience with other cases from the same manufacturer that have impressed us. We report manufacturers’ claimed drop-protection metrics. As we have listed iPhone cases only from trusted companies we feel safe in these claims but note that measurement is the maker’s own and not ours or Apple’s.
With the launch of iOS 27 this week, Apple Intelligence has reached maturity, with a real chatbot assistant in Siri AI, powerful photo editing tools, and legitimately good image generation.
And it’s mostly free. Unlike ChatGPT, Claude, and other AI tools, which charge monthly fees for anyone who uses the service more than occasionally. For example, the free Claude plan has “session-based usage limits” that can kick in when you’re using it too much. Those limits don’t exist with Siri AI or any of the Apple Intelligence tools.
Apple does charge for HomeKit Secure Video features. Apple has always tied HomeKit Secure Video to iCloud accounts for recording and viewing footage, but the Apple Intelligence features are costlier. Here’s what Apple charges now:
HomeKit Secure Video recording
50GB: 1 camera
200GB: Up to 5 cameras
2TB: More than 5 cameras
However, that 2TB plan, which costs $9.99 a month, is the least you can spend to get Apple’s new AI Home app features, including video descriptions for recorded clips and natural-language search. And that only supports a single camera:
HomeKit Secure Video recording with AI
2TB: 1 camera
6TB: 2 cameras
12TB: Up to 5 cameras
A setup with five cameras that costs you $2.99 a month will now cost $59.99 a month if you want to include AI summaries. That’s a steep increase just to get AI summaries, but it speaks to the overall expense of AI. Storing and analyzing 4K videos all day long isn’t cheap. And Apple cautions that “camera counts and other iCloud+ plan features may change over time,” so costs could go up.
And it sounds like Apple is going to charge for other services soon. On the Apple Intelligence usage limits support page, Apple warns that limits are coming to other features, including Siri AI and Photos:
In the future, Apple will implement usage limits on these and other Apple Intelligence and Siri AI features to ensure a high-quality, reliable experience for everyone. If you reach a limit in a particular feature, that feature will become available again after a time out period. Limits may vary by feature, request complexity, system demand, system policies, and other factors. Increased access to such features will be available for a fee.
It’s not clear when Apple will begin charging for AI features and conversations or how much it will cost, but enjoy your free Apple Intelligence while it lasts.
Apple’s Siri voice assistant was famously bad for a long time, but the company turned a corner with the launch of Siri AI, an upgraded assistant powered by the latest generation of Apple Intelligence with better accuracy and more features. Siri AI was announced at WWDC in June 2026 and arrived with iOS 27 on September 14. But it isn’t immediately available to everyone: access depends on your iPhone model, software version, language, Apple Account region, and a temporary waiting list.
So how do you actually get it? Siri AI doesn’t simply appear on your iPhone; you’ll need to clear a few hurdles before you can turn it on. In this brief tutorial, we explain what might be holding things up and show you how to get Siri AI on your iPhone.
Install iOS 27
First, update your iPhone to iOS 27 if you haven’t already. Open the Settings app and go to General > Software Update, then wait while your iPhone checks for available updates. If you see multiple options, select the latest iOS 27 version and follow the onscreen instructions to download and install it.
Your iPhone will restart when the update is complete.
Make sure you have enough storage
Siri AI and the latest Apple Intelligence features require lots of space. Depending on your iPhone, Apple says you may need up to 14GB of available storage.
To check, go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage. If you’re running short, you’ll need to free up some space before Siri AI can finish downloading. See: How to save space on an iPhone.
Check if Siri is available in your Apple Account region
Has Apple made Siri AI available in your country yet?
If your Apple Account is registered in the European Union, you’re mostly out of luck. Apple has delayed the launch of Siri AI for iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch in the EU, claiming that it needs more time to comply with the Digital Markets Act. The EU disputes Apple’s interpretation of the law. There is some hope that the situation may change. In the meantime, EU users can access Siri AI on a compatible Mac or Apple Vision Pro.
Users in mainland China also miss out on Siri AI while, in Tim Cook’s words, “Apple works through regulatory requirements.”
Set the device and Siri languages correctly
Siri AI currently supports English only. Wherever you are, you’ll need to have your device language and Siri language both set to English.
Once Siri AI has been activated, it will continue working even if you travel to a region where it isn’t available. Eligibility depends on your Apple Account region and device, rather than simply your location.
Check your iPhone model: Is your iPhone (or other Apple device) compatible with Siri AI?
The next step is to make sure your iPhone is compatible with Siri AI, which makes substantial demands on the processor and therefore won’t run on older and slower hardware.
Siri AI supports the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max, every iPhone 16 model and later, and iPhone Air.
Here’s a list of currently available iPhones that can run Siri AI. Any phones that Apple launches in the future will also be compatible.
iPhone Duo
iPhone 18 Pro Max
iPhone 18 Pro
iPhone 17 Pro Max
iPhone 17 Pro
iPhone Air
iPhone 17
iPhone 17e
iPhone 16 Pro Max
iPhone 16 Pro
iPhone 16 Plus
iPhone 16
iPhone 16e
iPhone 15 Pro Max
iPhone 15 Pro
If you’re unsure which iPhone model you’ve got, open the Settings app and go to General > About then look for Model Name in the top box.
Is your iPhone on the list? Great! There are just a couple more steps to take. (Plus potentially a bit of a wait.)
Siri AI is also available on the following Apple devices:
iPad mini (A17 Pro) or any iPad model with M1 or later running iPadOS 27
MacBook Neo (A18 Pro) or any Mac with M1 or later running macOS 27 Golden Gate
Apple Watch Series 9 or later, Apple Watch Ultra 2 or later, or Apple Watch SE 3, running watchOS 27 and paired with Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone
Open the Settings app and tap Siri. If Siri is currently turned off, enable it before continuing. At the top of the screen, tap Try Siri AI (Beta), then follow the onscreen instructions to choose a voice, complete voice enrollment, and review the privacy settings.
Once setup is complete, you’ll be added to Apple’s waiting list and the status will change to Joined Waiting List.
Now you wait. Some iPhone owners have gained access within minutes, while others have waited for hours or days. Wait times vary, but Siri AI will download automatically when access is granted. You’ll receive a notification when it’s ready to use.
Then you can start exploring the first truly capable version of Siri in years and all sorts of cool new features. Have fun.
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