Several iPhone users have reported an unexpected issue after updating to iOS 27. They noticed that their devices were no longer blocking ads through home-based solutions like Pi-hole or AdGuard, which are commonly used to filter online advertisements. The problem appears to stem from a feature called Connectivity Assist, found in the Wi-Fi settings. Disabling this function has been shown to restore ad-blocking capabilities, as confirmed by users on Reddit.
Apple's support documentation, dated September 15, explains that Connectivity Assist is designed to help maintain a stable internet connection. If a Wi-Fi network is too slow, the feature automatically switches to the device's cellular data to ensure uninterrupted access. However, it can interfere with ad-blocking tools by interpreting blocked ads as a sign of a weak Wi-Fi connection, prompting the device to use cellular data instead.
Connectivity Assist, now located in the Wi-Fi settings, replaced a previous feature called Wi-Fi Assistant, which was found in the Cellular Data menu in earlier iOS versions. Users of iOS 27 beta versions had already noticed changes in the location of this setting. Some users reported that after updating to iOS 27, the Wi-Fi Assistant feature, which they had previously disabled, was re-enabled automatically during the update process.
If you use ad-blocking tools like Pi-hole or AdGuard with your iPhone, it's important to check your Wi-Fi settings. Disabling Connectivity Assist may be necessary to ensure these tools continue to work as intended. This issue highlights how updates can sometimes alter device behavior in unexpected ways, even for familiar features.
iOS 27 Update Disrupts Home-Based Ad-Blocking Systems for iPhone Users
AI-rewritten from original reportingHow it works
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