Apple Music Adds Landscape Mode and Friend-Based Playlists in iOS 27

Apple has introduced a set of significant updates to Apple Music with the release of iOS 27. The changes focus on visual presentation and social discovery, aiming to make the listening experience more intuitive for iPhone users. 9to5Mac reports that these additions include a new layout option and a playlist that aggregates the musical choices of your social circle.

These updates are part of a broader refresh across the system, but the music app sees some of the most noticeable changes. The new features address common user requests for better screen utilization and easier access to shared listening experiences. While the core playback engine remains unchanged, the interface and content discovery tools have been significantly overhauled.

Landscape mode changes how lyrics display

The most visually distinct update is the addition of a dedicated landscape mode. Previously, rotating the phone while playing music did not offer a specific layout optimized for that orientation. Now, the interface adapts to show album artwork and playback controls side-by-side with the lyrics. This is particularly useful when the phone is docked on a desk or charger, allowing users to read along without constant tapping or scrolling.

This feature is especially beneficial for larger screen models, but it applies to all compatible iPhones. It turns the phone into a more traditional music player when held horizontally. The trade-off is that some of the vertical scrolling elements for browsing new releases are less accessible in this view, requiring a switch back to portrait mode for deeper exploration of the library.

Friend playlist tracks weekly listening habits

Apple has expanded its personalized playlist offerings with a new Friends playlist. This feature updates every Thursday and curates a selection of songs currently being played by your contacts. Each track in the list indicates which specific friend is listening to it, creating a social layer to the music discovery process. It serves as a quick way to see what your peers are enjoying without needing to ask them directly.

This addition relies on users having their Apple Music activity shared with their friends. If privacy settings are strict, the playlist may have limited content. The feature is designed to be a low-effort way to stay in sync with your social circle's musical tastes. It does not replace the algorithmic recommendations but offers a human-centric alternative to the purely data-driven 'Made for You' lists.

AutoMix transitions become more seamless

The AutoMix feature, which automatically blends one song into the next, has received significant improvements in iOS 27. The transitions are described as more immersive and energetic, reducing the abruptness that some users found frustrating in previous versions. The update also extends this functionality to Apple TV and HomePod, ensuring a consistent experience across devices.

While the new transitions are generally well-received, they are still an automated process. Users who prefer precise control over the exact moment a song starts and ends may find the automatic blending intrusive. The feature is best suited for casual listening or background music where the flow of the session is more important than the distinct start and end points of individual tracks.