Apple released the second beta of iOS 27 today, introducing a range of new features and refinements over the first beta. The release follows Apple's typical schedule, with a public beta expected in July and the official launch in September. Key additions include a persistent Write with Siri button, support for replying to specific messages in RCS conversations, and notifications for failed iCloud backups.
Write with Siri now always visible above the keyboard
In iOS 27 beta 2, Apple added a dedicated Write with Siri button above the keyboard in apps like Notes, Mail, and Messages. In the first beta, the tool was only available when selecting text. Now it is always accessible, making it easier to use Siri for writing.
Siri voice customization coming soon to iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air
The Siri voice customization feature, exclusive to iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air, now shows Pace and Expressivity options labeled as "Coming Soon." These options did not work in the first beta, indicating Apple is refining the system to deliver personalized voices.
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Wallet Insights for financial management
The Wallet app introduces a new Insights section, accessible via the three-dot icon in the top-right corner. A splash screen indicates users will be able to link accounts to view spending, recurring transactions, and balances. The feature is not fully implemented yet, but it hints at a future financial tracking tool.
Remote Apple TV updates via the Home app
With iOS 27 beta 2, the Home app supports remote software updates for Apple TV. The device appears in the Updates section under Home Settings; one tap installs the latest firmware without needing to turn on the Apple TV.
RCS now supports replying to specific messages
Apple added the ability to reply to a specific message in RCS conversations with Android users. Long pressing a message reveals the reply option, working exactly like iMessage. Additionally, Tapback reactions on images and videos now display the correct emoji instead of text descriptors as in iOS 26.
iCloud backup failure notifications
Code in the beta suggests iOS 27 will send a notification if an iCloud backup fails. The message reads: "There's a problem with our server, so you may not be able to backup or restore your device right now. Try again later." A useful feature for those relying on automatic backups.
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AirPort Utility no longer downloadable on iOS 27
Apple announced that the AirPort Utility app will no longer be available for download on iOS 27. Users who already have it can re-download it, but functionality is not guaranteed. This signals Apple's gradual abandonment of legacy networking products.
New Visual Intelligence option in Siri settings
A new Visual Intelligence section appears in Siri settings. The "Highlight to Image Search" toggle is off by default; enabling it sends images to third parties when highlighting subjects to find similar pictures. A privacy move worth monitoring.
Minor improvements to Camera, Weather, HomeKit, and more
In the Camera app, tool buttons now show a yellow border when a hidden feature like exposure adjustment is enabled. The Weather app has lighter blue text for better readability. HomeKit Secure Video cameras allow long pressing on notifications to view the video clip and turn on nearby lights. The issue of unresponsive HomeKit accessories like Philips Hue lights after upgrading to iOS 27 and tvOS 27 has been fixed in this beta.
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Photos AI tools support RAW, Siri app now lets you delete multiple conversations
AI tools in the Photos app now work with RAW images. In the Siri app, you can select multiple conversations to delete at once. In Wallet, the Create a Pass feature adds texture options for colors.
For users concerned about device security, Apple recently addressed the unpatchable usbliter8 flaw in A12 and A13 chips, which requires physical access for jailbreak. iOS 27 introduces multiple protections, such as iCloud backup failure notifications. For more information on iOS 27, see the Wikipedia page.
