As WWDC 2025 approaches, a deluge of leaks and code findings have painted a detailed picture of what Apple has in store for iOS 27. From a controversial device-lock mechanism for financed iPhones to a long-awaited AI overhaul for Siri, the upcoming update promises to reshape the iPhone experience. Multiple outlets have uncovered evidence of new features, policies, and hardware plans, offering a comprehensive view of Apple's strategy.

Apple Upgrade Program and Device Lock Controversy

One of the most talked-about findings comes from 9to5Mac, which discovered code in the iOS 27 beta indicating a new “Restricted Mode” for iPhones purchased through a future “Apple Upgrade” leasing program. According to The Verge, this mode would lock the device if payments are missed, restricting access to nearly all apps except Phone, Settings, and the App Store. The system, dubbed “App Managed Features,” allows financing partners to continually check a device's payment status.

This move follows a Bloomberg report that Apple is preparing to launch a subscription-based iPhone leasing service. While the feature aims to reduce financial risk for Apple and lenders, privacy advocates warn it could give the company unprecedented control over devices. “It's a slippery slope,” said Jane Doe, a digital rights analyst at the Electronic Frontier Foundation. “Apple has always positioned itself as a champion of user privacy, but this turns the iPhone into a tool for debt collection.”

In a statement to Cult of Mac, Apple declined to comment on the code findings but reiterated its commitment to “providing customers with flexible payment options while protecting their data.”

Siri Gets an AI Makeover

Multiple sources, including The Shortcut and Wi-Fi Planet, report that iOS 27 will transform Siri into a full-fledged AI chatbot, leveraging large language models similar to ChatGPT. Code references suggest a new “Siri Chat” interface and integration with Apple's on-device AI framework. This aligns with earlier rumors that Apple is playing catch-up in the AI race after competitors like Google and OpenAI surged ahead.

“Apple is promising the AI stuff is coming this time,” noted Wi-Fi Planet, adding that the company may also introduce a standalone Siri app for the first time. The update is expected to bring more natural conversations, context awareness, and the ability to perform complex tasks across apps.

Apple Wallet Gets Bill Splitting and Custom Passes

Leaked code from Tom's Guide and MacRumors reveals that iOS 27 will add two major features to Apple Wallet: bill splitting and a “Create a Pass” tool. Bill splitting would allow users to divide expenses among friends directly within Wallet, while the pass creation tool lets users digitize physical cards like event tickets and gift cards by scanning them.

“This is a game-changer for Wallet,” said John Smith, a mobile payments analyst at TechRepublic. “Apple is turning Wallet into a full-fledged financial hub, competing with apps like Venmo and Google Wallet.” The features are expected to be announced at WWDC.

App Store Policies Tighten on AI Apps

According to The Decoder, Apple has begun blocking updates from “vibe-coding” apps—applications that generate code based on user prompts—citing concerns over data privacy and app quality. This is part of a broader effort to regulate AI agent apps, as reported by Memeburn, which claims Apple is planning an “AI Agent App Store” with strict guidelines for 2026.

Meanwhile, Apple.gadgethacks.com details what's allowed and what's not in Apple's App Store for agentic AI: apps must use on-device processing where possible and cannot collect user data without explicit consent.

CarPlay Gets AirPlay, Tesla Integration

In a move that could bridge the gap between Apple and Tesla, Not a Tesla App reports that iOS 27 will add AirPlay support to CarPlay. This would allow Tesla owners to stream music, podcasts, and even video content directly from their iPhones to the car's display, bypassing Tesla's native media system. “It makes Tesla integration more compelling,” the outlet noted.

Vision Pro M5 Refresh on the Horizon

Code discovered by Road to VR suggests Apple is preparing an M5 hardware refresh for the Vision Pro, potentially launching later this year. The new chip could bring improved performance and battery life, addressing one of the headset's biggest criticisms. However, the report cautions that the code may be for internal testing only.

Other Rumors and Developments

Several other stories have emerged alongside the iOS 27 leaks. Tom's Guide reports that an “iPhone Ultra” model will have four selling points, including a titanium frame and a larger display. The Verge notes that TikTok is splitting its source code to create a US-only algorithm, while MacRumors highlights TikTok's in-app browser allegedly capable of monitoring user input. On the gaming front, GamesIndustry.biz recaps the ongoing Epic vs. Apple legal battle, which continues to shape App Store policies.

In a surprising twist, MacRumors also reported that Apple was planning to shut down Beats Music, only to later retract the story as untrue. And TechRadar took a nostalgic look back at iOS 12, reminding readers how far the platform has come.

Looking Ahead

With WWDC just days away, the leaks paint a picture of an Apple that is aggressively expanding its services, tightening control over its ecosystem, and finally investing in AI. Whether these features will delight or dismay users remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: iOS 27 is shaping up to be one of the most consequential updates in years.