In iOS 27, new Shared Albums in the Photos app retain full-resolution quality for the first time, but they now consume iCloud storage – including contributions from invited participants. Currently, Shared Album photos are automatically reduced to 2,048 pixels on the long edge, but iOS 27 preserves full resolution at the cost of storage space.

Previously, users could store up to 5,000 photos and videos in Shared Albums without affecting their iCloud limit. This changes in iOS 27, where all items – even those added by collaborators – count against the album owner's storage. Apple has simplified invitations, allowing friends and family to join via the web without an Apple Account or device, potentially increasing contributions from Android and Windows users.

iOS 27 introduces temporary Shared Albums as a free alternative for short-term collaboration, though photos and videos not saved within 30 days are deleted. Existing Shared Albums remain unaffected by default, but users can upgrade quality via the "Upgrade Shared Album" option, which consumes iCloud storage. Apple has not yet updated its support documentation for these changes.

iOS 27 is currently in public beta and expected to release in September alongside new iPhone models.