Wi-Fi is connected, but pages will not open and loading seems to take forever: sometimes the problem starts as you move away from the router. Among the improvements in iOS 27, Apple introduces Connectivity Assist to make transitions between wireless and mobile networks smoother. Apple describes it in the iOS 27 release notes.
In this guide, we explain where to find the setting, how to monitor data usage and what to check if your connection continues to cause problems.
What is Connectivity Assist and how does it work on iPhone?
Connectivity Assist lets your iPhone use mobile data alongside Wi-Fi when the wireless network is weak, congested or has no internet access. The aim is to maintain a reliable connection when Wi-Fi alone struggles to handle the traffic. Apple explains this behaviour in its mobile data guide.
Think about leaving home while reading a web page: your phone may still be connected to the router, even though the signal is struggling to reach it. This is an example of the kind of situation where this connection management can be useful.
The expected benefit is continuity while browsing. Apple’s description does not promise double the speed or a connection that never drops: it is therefore better to assess its usefulness on the networks you actually use.
Connectivity Assist and Wi-Fi Assist: what has changed?
The feature replaces the previous Wi-Fi Assist. Apple’s Italian sources call it both Assistente connettività and Assistenza connettività; its English name is Connectivity Assist.
| Aspect | Previously | With iOS 27 |
|---|---|---|
| Name | Wi-Fi Assist | Connectivity Assist |
| Settings section | Cellular | Wi-Fi |
If Wi-Fi Assist was enabled before the update, the new feature is enabled. If it was disabled, you can turn it on manually. Source: Apple Support.
How to turn Connectivity Assist on or off
On an iPhone updated to iOS 27:
- Open Settings.
- Go to Wi-Fi and check that it is on.
- Scroll to the feature’s setting.
- Turn the switch on or off.
The main control is therefore in the Wi-Fi section. Apple documents the steps here.
Turning it off only for your home or office network
You can also change its behaviour for a specific network. Connect to the relevant Wi-Fi network, open Settings > Wi-Fi and tap the information button ⓘ next to the network. From that screen, you can control whether the feature is used for the selected connection. The English guide calls the switch “Use Connectivity Assist”. Apple’s guide to Wi-Fi settings.
This is useful when you want traffic to stay on Wi-Fi for a particular router configuration, such as an ad-blocking system. It is one of the examples Apple gives.
Does Connectivity Assist use your data allowance? How to check usage
Mobile data usage may increase even when you are connected to Wi-Fi. Any charges depend on your mobile plan. If your data allowance is limited, it is worth checking usage after turning the feature on. For the overall total, open Settings > Cellular; to check usage against your plan, refer to your network provider’s figures. How to check data usage on iPhone.
Your iPhone also shows the mobile data used specifically by Connectivity Assist. The “Reset Data Usage” control starts a new count. Apple describes the counter in its user guide.
We recommend noting the starting value and checking it again after a few days of normal use. Consider two things together: how much your browsing experience has improved and how much extra data you are happy to use. Of course, resetting a counter on your phone does not renew your plan’s data allowance.
When the feature does not intervene
Apple’s guide specifies three exceptions:
- international roaming;
- Low Data Mode for mobile data;
- some apps that stream audio and video.
The feature uses mobile data when needed to maintain a stable connection, within these limits. Conditions of use in Apple’s guide.
Should you leave Connectivity Assist on?
The choice depends on your day-to-day use. As a practical starting point, we suggest trying it if you often move between areas with different Wi-Fi coverage and have a suitable data plan. See whether tasks that previously stopped become easier to finish.
If you want to keep mobile data use to a minimum, compare usage before deciding. For a useful assessment, keep your habits similar during the trial: comparing a day at home with a day spent entirely out and about can lead to unreliable conclusions.
Which iPhones support iOS 27?
Apple’s official list includes the iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 families, among others, as well as later models and the second- and third-generation iPhone SE. System compatibility therefore also extends to devices that have been on the market for several years. The list refers to iOS 27: availability of individual features may vary. See all compatible models on Apple’s website.
To check your device, open Settings > General > About. Available updates can be checked under General > Software Update. These are useful first steps if you cannot find the new setting. Apple lists both paths here.
If you are considering a refurbished iPhone, consider software support for your chosen model alongside storage, condition and battery life. It is a useful factor when choosing a device that suits the apps and settings you want to use.
Slow Wi-Fi or no internet after iOS 27: what to check
If the problem continues, work through the checks in order. Apple includes checking Connectivity Assist in its Wi-Fi troubleshooting procedure, but this does not mean the feature is responsible for every problem.
- Check the selected network: make sure your iPhone is connected to the Wi-Fi network you intended to use.
- Temporarily turn the feature off and try the same task again.
- Compare with another device on the same network: this helps you see whether the problem affects other devices too.
- Check the router: check distance, power and any available updates; try restarting it.
- Consider VPNs and security software if the problem coincides with their use.
Only consider resetting network settings after the other checks: it also removes saved networks, Wi-Fi passwords and VPN/APN settings. For a work device, check with the person who manages the network first. Apple Support’s full procedure.
Frequently asked questions about iOS 27 Connectivity Assist
How much data can it use?
Apple notes that mobile data usage may increase, without giving a fixed amount. The dedicated counter lets you monitor usage on your own device. How to read the feature’s data usage.
Do I need to enable Siri or Apple Intelligence?
Apple’s instructions for enabling Connectivity Assist do not require you to turn on Siri or Apple Intelligence. The iOS 27 release notes list it among the system improvements. Apple’s release notes.
Is it the same as Connection Assistant for satellite connections?
They are two different tools. Connection Assistant helps you access satellite features when there is no mobile or Wi-Fi coverage; Apple has documented it since iOS 18. This guide is about managing Wi-Fi and mobile data. How satellite connections work.
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