Apple News 8 Hours

Last updated: September 16, 2026, 10:02 PM ET

Apple's iOS 27.2 Beta Cycle Kicks Off

Apple has begun seeding the first developer betas of iOS 27.2 alongside mac OS 27.2, arriving just days after the public launch of iOS. The release brings a broad slate of changes, and early testers have already catalogued everything new in the first beta, from interface refinements to expanded AI capabilities.

Health App Redesign

The headline feature is a redesigned Health app that Apple previewed earlier this year and is now testing in the 27.2 beta. Apple Insider reports the overhaul has reached developers alongside Siri AI localization work, signaling Apple's continued push into health tracking and on-device intelligence.

Siri Expansion and Apple TV Profiles

Siri AI is rolling out in new languages with the 27.2 beta, broadening the assistant's reach beyond its initial launch markets. Meanwhile, Apple TV gains a long-requested profiles feature on iPhone, letting households separate viewing histories and recommendations. Mac Rumors confirms the Apple TV profiles addition ships across both iOS 27.2 and iPad OS 27.2.

Developer Tools and Data Migration

Starting with iOS 27.2, developers can offer an app data migration flow, letting users transfer settings and content from an old app to its replacement. In the EU, developers gain the option to use an alternative tracking prompt in place of Apple's standard App Tracking Transparency dialog. Apple is also working on a new option to thoroughly wipe iPhone storage with blank data after erasing, referenced in the beta and likely tied to Chinese market requirements.

Consumer Features and a Viral Bug

The 27.2 beta adds anniversary alerts that remind users of important dates, a small but practical addition for couples and families. On the bug front, a separate iOS 27 issue is freezing iPhones and going viral on social media just days after the public release. Apple Insider reports a Notification Center bug has persisted from beta through to the public build, an embarrassing carryover for the company.

Third-Party Apps and Photos

Travel planning app Tripsy shipped an iOS 27 update this week with smarter imports and on-device AI insights. Apple Photos also gains a save-frame feature in iOS 27 that lets users pull a still image directly from a video. WhatsApp, meanwhile, may soon let iPhone users add a third account to the same app, following its recent support for a second account.

Hardware, Pricing, and Legal Pressure

Apple has agreed to DRAM pricing at $2 per Gb in the new year, up from $1.50, a 33% increase that Apple Insider warns will drive more iPhone price hikes in 2027 with no relief through 2028. On the hardware front, buyers now face a choice between the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Duo, with the foldable Duo raising new questions about form factor and value. In legal news, federal judge Mark Pittman is scrutinizing Musk's move to drop Apple from an antitrust lawsuit involving OpenAI, demanding details on any agreement that may have prompted the decision.

Accessories

For Mac users upgrading their desk setup, the Sihoo B300 Pro chair is available for under $300, offering an ergonomic option that pairs with a workstation without breaking the budget.