New iOS 27: long-awaited redesign of Apple AirPods Pro 2 settings and Genmoji update

Many owners of Apple wireless headphones have repeatedly encountered confusing interface logic when trying to change their settings. When connecting the flagship AirPods Pro 2 and going to settings, users were literally lost in an impressive list of diverse options. Gesture controls, built-in medical hearing aid functions, adaptive noise reduction – all these settings were chaotically arranged into an endless scrolling page. However, the situation will change radically: in the iOS 27 operating system, Apple is preparing a large-scale update that will radically simplify working with headphones and correct painful ergonomic shortcomings.

What will change in the AirPods Pro 2 settings menu in iOS 27?

The main problem with the current interface is the monolithic settings page, to which new software options are indiscriminately added. This makes it difficult to quickly set up headphones. In iOS 27, Apple engineers and designers will completely rewrite the configuration menu. The updated interface will have strict structuring. Options will be divided into clear categories and thematic blocks, complemented by visual icons for quick visual search. Now, in order to configure touch controls, activate adaptive mode, or enable hearing health options, the user no longer has to scroll through dozens of disparate parameters.

It is important to emphasize that the new usability standards will apply to the entire current brand software line. Owners of tablets based on iPadOS 27, as well as users of personal computers running macOS 27, will receive a similar logical view of the settings panel. This unification will simplify the everyday experience for those who actively switch the audio system between smartphones, laptops and tablets throughout the day.

At the same time, some experts and fans were puzzled by the fact that Apple has not yet released a separate program for headphones. While gadgets like the Apple Watch or Vision Pro are controlled through their own dedicated apps on the iPhone, all controls for the AirPods line of wireless headphones are still integrated deep into the smartphone’s system utilities. Some are inclined to attribute this step to Apple’s internal conservatism and reluctance to overload the desktop ecosystem with individual services.

Generation of pictures and emojis will become better

The next significant vector of operating system development is centered around generative AI tools. A quality upgrade awaits Genmoji features and the Image Playground platform for creating visual content. In iOS 27, developers will deploy improved deep learning neural network models. The images they generate will acquire more detail and photorealism, getting rid of too cartoony patterns and graphic simplification.

The AI ​​in the system will begin to analyze the context of correspondence in the messenger or uploaded pictures, independently predicting plots for quick preparations of emoticons and avatars. The openness of services will increase: Image Playground will have built-in functionality for connecting third-party neural networks, expanding the traditional capabilities of the basic ChatGPT. This will allow you to create high-quality postcards, children’s stickers or emotionally charged pictures directly on your mobile device without third-party utilities.

iOS 27 release

The procedure for obtaining operating system updates remains completely free for compatible products. The start of distribution of the stable version of iOS 27 is scheduled for autumn 2026. Key features are guaranteed to work on the current iPhone 16 Pro family and subsequent flagship developments.

Apple Intelligence in English only

A significant limitation for users from Ukraine when using AI will continue to be the factor of the supported language pack. Apple Intelligence initiatives are initially focused on a limited number of regions. To test creative functionality like Image Playground and custom Genmoji emoticons, you will have to select English as the system language in the device parameters, since neural networks do not yet understand either Ukrainian or Russian. But the new structural menu of the wireless headset will receive full Ukrainian localization and improved usability as soon as the regular system update process is completed.

Pros and cons: are new features worth using?

Advantages:

• A well-thought-out grouping of AirPods Pro 2 options eliminates visual confusion among options.
• Powerful upgrades to the visual AI platform bring personalized avatars and graphics to a high level of quality.
• A wide range of options for creating graphic content using the best independent AI models in real time.

Disadvantages:

• No ability to open AirPods settings using a full cellular screen shortcut.
• The complex of smart neural network options remains demanding on language packages (only English is supported).