Performance issues are a common source of frustration for iPhone users with older devices. As time goes on, devices can feel slower, especially after Apple releases its annual iOS update in September. However, there is hope for a change in 2026.
During the recent WWDC event in California, Apple unveiled iOS 27, which boasts enhancements such as a smarter Siri assistant, improved Apple Intelligence, upgraded photo editing tools, and new customization options for the Liquid Glass appearance. Notably, Apple is also promising significant performance improvements with this new update.
Apple claims that iOS 27 will enable apps to launch up to 30% faster, resulting in a smoother everyday user experience. Additionally, Apple assures users that photo loading speeds will increase by up to 70% across devices, and AirDrop transfers will be up to 80% quicker.
What’s even better is that these performance enhancements won’t be limited to the latest iPhone 17 Pro Max. Thanks to a feature called the CPU scheduler, older models like the iPhone 11 and iPhone 12 will also benefit from increased speed and fluidity.
The CPU scheduler optimizes performance by prioritizing the app being used on the screen, ensuring it receives maximum processing power over other background tasks. This continuous adjustment of performance levels will provide users with a vastly improved device experience.
While the full extent of these improvements remains to be seen, Apple is confident that iOS 27 will extend the lifespan of aging devices and eliminate the need to upgrade iPhones that are still in good working condition.
Apple explained, “Improvements across platforms push key system capabilities forward so everyday tasks feel faster, smoother, and more enjoyable.” Although an exact release date has not been announced, iOS 27 is expected to be available in September.