Apple has started testing iOS 27.2.1, reports MacRumors, which reports seeing visits from devices running that version of iOS in its site visitor logs. The first iOS 27.3 developer beta is also expected to be seeded very soon, possibly later today.
The numbering of the iOS 27.2.1 indicates that it should be a minor update that brings bug fixes and/or security patches, including minor fixes for the iPhone Duo, which hot store shelves on Friday, October 23.
A press release in the Chinese Apple Newsroom website noted that the iOS 27.3 beta would be released on Wednesday, November 4, but that would likely mean Tuesday, November 3 in the states, thanks to time zone differences. Apple said iOS 27.3 will be released to the public sometime in December.
As we reported last month, Apple will enable some Apple Intelligence features in China with the release of iOS 27.3. The launch, which comes after two years of regulatory delays, will include basic Apple Intelligence features for things like photo editing and a limited version text generation tools.
Following the release of iOS 27.3, iPhone 15 Pro and newer users will have access to such features as Writing Tools, Genmoji, Clean Up, Notification Summaries, Priority Notifications, Visual Intelligence, and Live Translation with AirPods. However, Siri AI, Image Playground, and the newer version of Genmoji will be missing.
China harshly restricts foreign AI technology, forcing Apple to partner with Alibaba and Baidu in order to launch Apple Intelligence in the country. Apple also has to gain future approval for ongoing updates to the AI models.
Apple Intelligence features will not be available on other Apple devices, such as the Mac, iPad, or other devices in China until Apple receives the necessary approvals.
