Apple releases iOS 27.2 with fix for over 160 security vulnerabilities: Here’s how to update

Apple has released iOS 27.2 for compatible iPhones, bringing fixes for more than 160 security vulnerabilities along with new features for Siri, Messages, Photos and other apps. The update addresses issues that could allow malicious apps to access private information, bypass privacy settings or use hardware features such as the camera and Bluetooth without proper permission. Apple said none of the vulnerabilities covered by the update were actively exploited by attackers. The release also adds new options for Apple Music, Podcasts, FaceTime and the Apple TV app. Here is a look at the key changes and how to download the update.iOS 27.2 fixes over 160 security vulnerabilitiesA major part of the iOS 27.2 update focuses on protecting user data and improving app permissions. Apple has fixed vulnerabilities affecting several parts of the operating system, including Accounts, App Intents, Photos, Contacts, Calendar, Maps, Shortcuts and Siri.One fix addresses an issue that could allow apps to access private user information. Apple has also fixed a vulnerability in Hide My Email that could expose a user's original email address despite the feature being enabled. The update includes additional checks to stop apps from accessing users' Photos libraries or bypassing privacy preferences. It also addresses an issue that could allow certain apps to see which applications were installed on an iPhone.Other fixes prevent malicious apps from accessing the camera without permission or using Bluetooth without the required approval. Apple has also addressed security issues that could lead to denial-of-service attacks, unexpected app crashes and unauthorised code execution.According to the information provided by Apple, none of these vulnerabilities were actively exploited at the time of the update's release.iOS 27.2 brings new Siri and Messages featuresThe update adds improvements to Siri AI, allowing it to recall previous conversations and draw information from sources such as Messages attachments, Calendar event attendees and voicemails. Apple has also improved its use of Safari history and Reading List information.Users can now select and copy specific portions of a Siri response. A redesigned setting also makes it easier to choose which apps Siri, Search and suggestions can access.Siri AI support has expanded to include French, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese and Spanish. However, the feature is not available in the European Union or mainland China. Siri AI also requires an iPhone 15 Pro or a later model.In Messages, users can receive contextual suggestions, such as tracking a package or adding a dinner invitation to Calendar. They can choose which suggestions to enable, including Calendar, Reminders, Notes, Maps, and Flights and Packages.Other features in the iOS 27.2 updateThe update brings several other changes across Apple's apps and services:- Apple Music: The app gets a redesigned black-and-white icon, replacing the red design.- Photos: Users can edit captions and comments in Shared Albums, avoid duplicate photos and receive reminders before albums expire.- Podcasts: The Home tab now separates New Episodes from Continue Playing.- Apple TV: Users can create profiles on their iPhone and iPad, including child profiles with content-rating controls.- FaceTime: Group calls now support Dual Capture on compatible iPhones, allowing video from the front and rear cameras to be captured together. Users can also add a third-party sign language interpreter or live captioner to a call.- Apple TV app: Multiview lets users watch up to four live sports streams simultaneously for supported events.- Shortcuts: The update adds new actions and automation options, including an automation for when the iPhone Duo is opened or closed.The update also includes SynthID labelling for images created with Image Playground and certain edits made in Photos.How to download and install iOS 27.2Apple iPhone users can check for the update through their device's Settings app. Before installing, it is advisable to connect the phone to Wi-Fi and back up important data.Follow these steps to update your iPhone:Open Settings on your iPhone.Tap General.Select Software Update.If iOS 27.2 is available, tap Download and Install.Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.You use AI every day. Now get your AI Quotient. Take the AIQ test.