Apple has released a new package of operating system updates across its various platforms, bearing the number 27.2 and bringing with it additional capabilities for its smart assistant Siri and features relying on artificial intelligence technologies. The new AI-powered features are available in the version designated for compatible iPhones, allowing the Siri assistant to offer the feature of retrieving previous conversations that the user had with the chatbot.
Key new AI capabilities in Siri
The iOS 27.2 update allows the Siri assistant to pull information from more accurate and comprehensive sources, such as photos sent via the Messages app, attendee names in calendar invitations, and voicemail messages. iPhone users can also select and copy specific parts of Siri's answers thanks to the precise text selection feature, alongside the ability to exclude specific programs from Siri's access and search suggestions via the excluded apps settings.
Regarding languages, Apple has expanded support to include French, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, and Spanish. These features are available exclusively on iPhone 16 models and later, in addition to iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max phones.
General updates and other device applications
Other devices get their share of updates, as Apple Watches via watchOS 27.2 received the same package of AI features specific to Siri, while macOS 27.2 includes conversation retrieval features and suggestions within the Messages app, alongside the usual bug fixes and security updates. Apple has also pushed the new updates to iPad, Apple TV, Vision Pro headset, and HomePod speakers systems.
What practically changes for users?
This update represents a practical step in enhancing the contextual integration of the Siri assistant with the user's daily data within various applications, reducing the need for manual searching among photos and messages. Also, supporting Google's SynthID watermark technology for AI-generated images adds a technical verification layer for images via the Photos app or Image Playground, while the first generation of foldable iPhones (dual iPhone) receives Apple Pencil support and the Edge Light feature for video calls.