Apple is reportedly preparing to transform the iPhone camera into an AI-powered search engine. With the upcoming iOS 27 operating system, the company plans to introduce a dedicated "Siri Mode" inside the Camera app, positioned alongside familiar options like Photo, Video, and Portrait, according to a recent report.
How the New Siri Mode May Work
Currently, iPhone users access visual search through a specific "Camera Control" button or separate shortcuts. In iOS 27, this experience is set for a complete overhaul, as reported by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. When users swipe to Siri Mode, the traditional white shutter button will transform into the glowing Apple Intelligence logo. Users can point their camera at an object and use built-in AI or external tools like ChatGPT to ask questions. The mode will automatically recognize real-world items. For instance, pointing at a concert poster can instantly create a calendar event, while scanning a menu can pull up restaurant reviews.
Beyond identifying plants or animals, Apple is adding several practical in-house capabilities to this mode. Users will be able to scan nutrition labels on food packaging to automatically log calories and macros into their health data. Additionally, pointing the camera at a business card or document will allow users to save contact details with a single tap. The mode will also integrate directly with Google to help users find where to purchase items seen through the lens.
Camera Hardware and AI
The redesign of the camera software is widely seen as a stepping stone for Apple's future hardware. The company is reportedly working on a new category of wearable devices, including smart glasses and AirPods with cameras, that will rely on Siri's ability to see and analyze the environment in real-time.
What Else to Expect in iOS 27
The report indicates that Siri Mode is just one component of a massive AI overhaul expected to be unveiled at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) this June. Rumors suggest that Siri will transition to a chatbot-like interface with its own dedicated app. A new Photos app is also anticipated to feature AI tools for expanding or reframing images after they have been taken. Apple is said to be prioritizing battery life and software stability to handle the high power demands of these new AI features.
