Apple has announced that developers can now submit their applications for the upcoming versions of its operating systems, including iOS 27, iPadOS 27, macOS 27, tvOS 27, visionOS 27, and watchOS 27. This significant update comes just before the official public release scheduled for next Monday, September 14. Developers are encouraged to download the Xcode 27 Release Candidate to build and submit their apps using the most recent Software Development Kits (SDKs).
A notable change highlighted by Apple is that macOS 27 will exclusively support applications designed for Apple silicon. This means that macOS 26 was the final version to offer compatibility with Intel-based Macs and Rosetta. Developers aiming to optimize their applications for macOS 27 are advised to configure their Xcode build architecture to arm64 only, rebuild, and resubmit their applications. This transition is intended to simplify development and enhance performance on Apple silicon. Furthermore, developers need to address new age rating questionnaires, particularly for features such as Time Allowances, and prepare their App Store product pages with updated design guidelines, ensuring their listings are ready for the new product page headers and search result assets.
Looking ahead, Apple has also stipulated that starting April 2027, all applications uploaded to App Store Connect must meet minimum SDK requirements. Specifically, iOS and iPadOS applications will need to be built with iOS 27 & iPadOS 27 SDK or newer. Similarly, tvOS, visionOS, and watchOS applications must be developed using their respective 27 SDKs or later versions. These requirements ensure that all applications on the App Store leverage the latest platform capabilities and security features, providing users with the best possible experience across all Apple devices.
This proactive move by Apple empowers developers to seamlessly transition their applications to the newest operating systems, fostering innovation and ensuring a high-quality user experience. By setting clear guidelines and providing necessary tools in advance, Apple reinforces its commitment to supporting the developer community and enhancing the App Store ecosystem.
