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iOS and macOS 27.2: What Changes on iPhones, iPads and Macs

DevicesOctober 27, 20262 min read

Apple has released iOS, macOS and other system updates, version 27.2. It fixes many security holes and adds new features, including more languages for its AI assistant, Siri AI.

What happened

Apple released version 27.2 of its main operating systems for iPhone, iPad, Mac and other devices. Version 27.1 was skipped. It was only for the iPhone Duo, which can now also update to 27.2. The update brings Siri AI to five new languages: French, Spanish, Portuguese, Japanese and Korean. German is still not supported. The EU ban on Siri AI on iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch has not changed for now.

Key facts

Version 27.1 was skipped; 27.2 is the first big update for all current systems.
Siri AI now works in English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Japanese and Korean.
In Germany, app tracking prompts can ask users again every 12 months.
The new tracking prompt also applies in France, Italy, Poland and Romania.
HomePod software also gets version 27.2.

Changes to ad tracking and app installs

To settle a competition case with Germany's Federal Cartel Office, Apple is changing its ad tracking prompt, called App Tracking Transparency. App makers can show extra information. They can also ask users for permission again after 12 months. The word "tracking" is no longer used. In the rest of the EU, the new prompts are optional. Outside the EU, the old prompt stays. In the EU, Apple also promises easier sideloading, which means installing apps from outside the App Store, with fewer questions for users.

Why it matters

The update fixes many security problems that could be serious, so users should install it quickly. Security researchers had already shown a jailbreak of iOS 27.0.1, which can let someone take full control of a device. The changes to tracking and app installs also show how EU rules are shaping how Apple works in Europe.

What to watch

Apple's full list of fixed security problems, which it said would come later that evening.
Whether Apple brings Siri AI to German or to the EU soon.
How easy the new sideloading process really is for EU users.
Whether the new tracking prompts change how many users allow tracking.

Glossary

Siri AI: Apple's AI system that answers questions and helps with tasks on its devices.
App Tracking Transparency: Apple's privacy prompt that asks users if apps may track them across other apps and websites.
iPhone Duo: An Apple iPhone model that got an early system update in this story.
HomePod: Apple's smart speaker that plays music and works with Siri.

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