ZDNET's key takeaways

iOS 27 introduced several new capabilities, many of which Android already offers.
Apple's AI enhancements will seem recognizable to longtime Android users.
A couple of fresh additions stand out as worth borrowing for Android.

More than 15 years as an Android enthusiast have shaped my perspective. I often highlight why this platform stands out as the stronger choice. Each time Apple unveils a fresh iOS version, the familiar refrain emerges about prior implementation on Android.

Following the iOS 27 reveal, those observations hold up once more. Numerous highlighted iPhone additions already appear in Android, sometimes for years. At the same time, a few elements merit consideration for future inclusion elsewhere.

Four iOS 27 additions already familiar on Android appear below, alongside two that could enhance the platform.

Elements already familiar on Android

1. Siri AI

The standout update centers on Siri AI, available only on newer hardware. Apple described the revised assistant as far more advanced and natural in conversation, with awareness of personal details, wide-ranging knowledge, and awareness of onscreen content. It can draw from emails and messages to perform tasks across applications.

Android users recognize similar functionality through Gemini, integrated across Google services and Android Auto for several years. It manages extended conversations, executes actions in multiple apps, reviews messages and email for context, discusses screen content, and handles additional tasks matching the described abilities.

Over time, deeper integration within Apple's controlled ecosystem may give Siri AI an edge. For the present, however, the approach aligns with capabilities Google has delivered for years.

2. Generative photo editing

Apple introduces AI tools for photos through Spatial Reframe, Cleanup, and Expand. Cleanup and Expand remove unwanted elements and extend image borders, while Spatial Reframe adjusts viewing angle or perspective.

Android supports comparable AI edits, including object removal via Magic Eraser, edge expansion with Generative Expand, subject repositioning, crop adjustments, and background generation. These tools, once limited to certain devices, reached broader Android availability in 2024. Apple gains an advantage here since Android lacks a direct match for Spatial Reframe, as attempts to replicate perspective shifts through Gemini proved unsuccessful.

3. Apple Intelligence in Messages and Wallet

Apple Intelligence integration aims to streamline Wallet interactions. Pointing the device at a receipt allows item selection for bill splitting and payment via Apple Cash.

Google Photos paired with Google Wallet achieves similar receipt scanning through Lens integration, with payments handled via additional applications when needed.

4. More nuanced volume controls

Apple now permits separate adjustment of ringtone, alarm, and alert volumes. The system emphasizes intelligent options, such as directing Siri to lower music during calls, balancing levels across apps, and allowing AI to set appropriate volumes. This marks the first opportunity to assign distinct levels for alarms and media on iPhone.

Android has supported independent volume settings for these categories over an extended period.

Features worth borrowing for Android

Apple also presents elements in iOS 27 that extend beyond familiar territory, including a pair that could benefit Android.

1. Call Context

This addition surfaces relevant details automatically during calls to businesses. Contacting an airline, for instance, displays a reservation code drawn from confirmation emails.

Android offers Call Screening, Hold For Me, live call transcription, post-call summaries, and suggestions informed by other apps. These provide value before or after calls. Call Context delivers assistance while the conversation occurs, suggesting an opportunity for Android to extend its call tools similarly.

2. Automatic password changing

Password management remains a persistent challenge amid complex requirements, breach responses, and repeated logins. Reliance on a primary account helps, yet improvements would reduce ongoing friction.

iOS 27 adds the ability to detect a compromised password, log in to supported services, and update credentials automatically. The scope remains limited to compatible platforms, yet it represents meaningful progress where available.