Apple releases iOS 27 beta 2 with Siri enhancements and expanded RCS features

Apple has released the second developer beta of iOS 27 as it continues preparations for the public launch of its next-generation operating systems later this year. The latest software update introduces several refinements across Apple’s ecosystem, with a particular focus on Siri and messaging improvements.

The new beta arrives shortly after the company’s announcements at its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2026. Apple is also rolling out beta 2 versions of iPadOS 27 and macOS 27, reflecting a broader strategy of delivering consistent features across its devices.

Siri receives new writing tools and performance improvements

One of the most noticeable additions in the latest beta is the introduction of “Write with Siri”, a feature that replaces the previous AI-powered Writing Tools prompt on supported iPhones and iPads.

According to reports from early testers, users will now see a large “Write with Siri” prompt displayed above the keyboard before they begin typing. If a user chooses to write without assistance, the prompt automatically reduces to a smaller Siri icon, creating a less intrusive experience while keeping the feature readily accessible.

The update represents another step in Apple’s effort to make Siri a more integrated part of daily device use. The company highlighted several artificial intelligence enhancements at WWDC 2026, and the latest beta appears to build on those announcements with practical improvements aimed at enhancing usability.

Additional Siri-related updates in beta 2 are more subtle. Early reports suggest that performance has improved, resulting in faster responses in some situations. Apple has also updated portions of the Expressive Voice preview, with certain features now labelled as “coming soon”, indicating that further capabilities may be introduced in future beta releases.

The changes demonstrate Apple’s ongoing effort to modernise Siri while maintaining a consistent experience across iPhone, iPad and Mac devices. As testing continues, developers are expected to uncover further adjustments and refinements before the software reaches its final release.

Messages app gains richer RCS functionality

Apple has also expanded support for Rich Communication Services (RCS) within the Messages app, continuing its push to improve communication between Apple and non-Apple devices.

The latest beta introduces support for message reactions within RCS conversations. This allows users to respond to messages with emoji reactions, similar to what has long been available in iMessage chats. The addition helps create a more seamless experience when communicating across different mobile platforms.

Another significant enhancement is the arrival of in-line replies for RCS messages. Users can now respond directly to specific messages within a conversation thread, making group discussions and longer exchanges easier to follow. The feature brings RCS conversations closer to the functionality already available in many modern messaging platforms.

The update continues a broader trend of increasing compatibility between Apple’s messaging ecosystem and devices running other operating systems. Over the past year, Apple has gradually introduced additional RCS features designed to improve both functionality and security when users communicate across platforms.

By expanding support for reactions and threaded replies, Apple is addressing some of the limitations that previously existed when messaging between iPhone users and those on non-Apple devices. The improvements are expected to enhance everyday communication and reduce friction between different mobile ecosystems.

Additional updates improve device integration

Beyond Siri and Messages, the second beta includes several smaller but notable improvements across Apple’s software platforms.

Users testing macOS Golden Gate beta 2 have reported enhancements to iPhone Mirroring, a feature that lets iPhone screens and features be accessed directly from a Mac. The latest update appears to resolve several issues that were present in the first beta release, improving overall reliability and performance.

Apple has also introduced support for firmware updates for AirPods Max 2 through the latest software versions. The change should make it easier for users to keep their headphones up to date with the latest features and fixes without requiring additional steps.

These updates highlight Apple’s continued focus on strengthening connections between its devices and services. Rather than introducing entirely new features in every beta release, the company is refining existing functionality and addressing issues identified during early testing.

With several months remaining before the expected public launch of iOS 27, iPadOS 27 and macOS 27, further changes are likely to arrive through future beta versions. Developers and testers will continue examining the software for additional features, performance improvements and bug fixes as Apple moves closer to the final release.

The latest beta suggests that Apple’s priorities remain centred on artificial intelligence integration, cross-platform communication and deeper connectivity between its devices, setting the stage for a broader software rollout later this year.