Apple adds Siri camera mode to iPad in iPadOS 27.3 beta
Apple's iPadOS 27.3 beta introduces a dedicated Siri tab in the Camera app, letting users ask Siri AI questions about whatever their iPad camera is pointed at. The feature builds on Apple's Visual Intelligence tool and adds Apple Pencil support on iPad, allowing users to circle an object in a photo to get more information about it. The first beta became available in early November, with a public release expected in December.
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The addition extends Apple's AI-powered Visual Intelligence features, first shown at WWDC in June, from iPhone to iPad, suggesting the company wants consistent AI camera tools across its device lineup. The Pencil-based circling gesture echoes Google's Circle to Search, indicating competitive pressure in visual search features between the two companies. Access remains limited to newer hardware, such as iPad Pro and Air with M1 chips or later and iPad mini with A17 Pro or A20 Pro chips, which could shape upgrade decisions for users wanting these tools.
- iPadOS 27.3 beta adds a Siri tab to the Camera app for visual AI queries.
- iPad-exclusive Apple Pencil support lets users circle objects for more information.
- Feature requires newer iPad hardware and is expected to launch publicly in December.
Apple Pencil Pro — If you're testing out Siri's new Visual Intelligence mode on iPad, the Apple Pencil Pro lets you fully take advantage of the circle-to-search-style feature for identifying objects on screen. It's the exact tool Apple designed this iPad-exclusive Siri camera upgrade around, making it a natural companion for anyone exploring the beta.
See Apple Pencil Pro on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: engadget.com — Kris Holt, 2026-11-11
Published there as: “How to get this Siri camera upgrade for your iPad before its public release”
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