One of the most revolutionary features in Apple's upcoming iOS 27 could revolve around the iPhone's most underrated app

Published on Jun 10, 2026 at 5:51 AM (UTC-4)
by Daisy Edwards

Last updated on Jun 25, 2026 at 5:10 AM (UTC-4)
Edited by Daisy Edwards

One of the most revolutionary features in Apple's upcoming iOS 27 could revolve around the iPhone's most underrated app
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This app has long been one of the most underrated tools hidden away on the iPhone, but it has also been one of the most intimidating, but thanks to iOS 27, you’ll be desperate to use it.

The update could transform how millions of people use their iPhones, making life easier in a way that previously required a fair amount of technical know-how.

And for many users, it might finally turn one of Apple’s most underrated apps into one of its most useful.

Apple’s iOS 27 update could make your life so easy

The biggest change coming to our Apple gadgets’ Shortcuts app in iOS 27 is the ability to create automations using natural language.

As reported by tech journalist Stephen Robles, instead of digging through menus and manually assembling actions one by one, users can simply tell their iPhone what they want.

For example, someone could ask for a morning routine shortcut that checks the weather, reads out calendar appointments, and reminds them about tasks due that day.

The system then builds the entire shortcut automatically.

What’s even more impressive is that users can continue tweaking the shortcut afterwards by simply describing additional changes.

Need it to mention birthdays? Just ask.

Want it to open a specific settings page? The AI can build that too.

Apple has also upgraded the app’s AI-powered ‘Use Model’ action, making it easier to create complex workflows powered by Apple Intelligence.

The new version even lets users inspect how the AI arrived at its answers, helping troubleshoot automations when something isn’t working correctly.

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These Apple Shortcuts are absolutely essential to know if you use an iPhone

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AirPods and AirPlay are getting big changes when Apple's iOS 27 update arrives later this year

AirPods and AirPlay are getting big changes when Apple's iOS 27 update arrives later this year

Apple accidentally reveals two new changes it's made with its upcoming iOS 27 update

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Shortcuts are more powerful than ever

The update, which is rumoured to be released in September, isn’t just about making shortcuts easier to create.

Apple is also introducing several new automation triggers that dramatically expand what the app can do.

One of the most exciting additions allows shortcuts to run automatically whenever a screenshot is taken.

That could be used to instantly describe an image using AI, extract text, save information into Notes, or organise screenshots without any manual input.

Another highly requested feature allows automations to be triggered by notifications from third-party apps.

For example, a delivery notification from Instacart or DoorDash could trigger an announcement throughout a smart home, ensuring users never miss an important update.

Perhaps the most significant addition is a new storage system that allows shortcuts to save information as global variables that sync across devices through iCloud.

This means users can store lists, preferences, website links, clipboard histories, and even API keys that can be accessed from any of their Apple devices.

The feature makes it possible to build things like clipboard managers entirely within Shortcuts, without relying on workarounds or third-party apps.

For an app that many iPhone owners have never even opened, iOS 27 could be the update that finally turns Shortcuts into one of Apple’s standout features.

And if the early beta is anything to go by, the app could soon become one of the smartest and most useful tools on the entire iPhone.

Daisy is a technology and automotive journalist covering artificial intelligence, consumer tech, Apple news, cryptocurrency, emerging technologies, and transportation innovation. Since joining the team in 2025, she has reported on everything from AI-powered startups and major iOS updates to viral car stories and the latest developments shaping transportation and the digital economy. Drawing on her background in automotive journalism and a degree in History and Journalism from Goldsmiths, University of London, Daisy specializes in breaking down complex topics into clear, engaging reporting for a global audience. Her work spans cutting-edge technology, innovative vehicles, and the people driving change across both industries. Daisy has gained first-hand access to some of the world's most talked-about technologies and innovators, including meeting Tesla's Optimus humanoid robot during its first European appearance in London. She has also discussed the future of space exploration with an astronaut, bringing unique insights and real-world perspectives to her coverage of emerging technology.