In our modern age, a reliable internet connection can be more valuable than ever. With seemingly everything important requiring some sort of internet connection, losing your cellular or Wi-Fi connection can be anywhere from a minor inconvenience to a real headache. For those who like to make sure they’re always connected, your iPhone actually has an underrated feature, even though Apple has now given it a new name.
Originally known as Wi-Fi Assist in iOS 26 and earlier, Apple apparently moved the feature and renamed it Connectivity Assist in iOS 27. The feature helps users switch between cellular and Wi-Fi connections more quickly, with users on X and elsewhere saying the feature is now more consistent and faster. Those looking for something more reliable will definitely appreciate this feature, but those worried about how much phone data they actually need may find it particularly useful.
Luckily, we can show you where the feature is (even on iOS 26), and it’s pretty easy to access and enable, just like other iOS features you should consider using. As for iOS 27, it also offers a Siri assistant backed by Apple Intelligence, photo editing tools backed by Apple’s AI, new safety features for children, and much more. Users can expect the update to arrive in fall 2026, but for now, let’s look at how Apple wants to improve the iPhone’s data connections.
How to use Connectivity Assist in iOS 27 (or iOS 26)
Savvy Android owners probably already know that Google Pixel phones have an adaptive connectivity feature (also known as Smart Switch on Samsung Galaxy devices) that helps users maintain a connection when switching from cellular to Wi-Fi. Those who need constant access to the Internet will definitely find it a lifesaver, but it’s worth noting that iPhones also have this feature. Originally known as Wi-Fi Assist, it was renamed Connectivity Assist in iOS 27.
If you’re using iOS 26 or older, you’ll find Wi-Fi Assist by opening Settings, selecting Cellular or Mobile Data, then scrolling down and turning Wi-Fi Assist on. However, in iOS 27, the feature has been moved and is now called Connectivity Assist. To find it in iOS 27, go to Settings, choose Wi-Fi, then scroll down and make sure Connectivity Assist is turned on.
In its report, Woozad notes that the new feature might be more consistent, as several users report receiving a notification about “Smart Connectivity” when the renamed Connectivity Assist is active. The report notes that Apple says “smoother network transitions” are available in iOS 27 and iPadOS 27. Since iOS 27 is still in public beta, note that this feature may change before the final release, including its location. If you really want to try the feature sooner, we can also show you how to download the iOS 27 beta to your phone.
