Apple has released the OS 27 operating system betas to those who have signed up for the Public Beta, a program that allows users to test the latest software updates before they are made widely available. The OS 27 betas include iOS 27, iPadOS 27, macOS 27, tvOS 27, watchOS 27, and visionOS 27.
The headline feature of the OS 27 updates is a new conversational Siri AI, a full-chatbot-style assistant that is far more capable than its predecessor and can mine a user's iPhone for details to provide more accurate answers. In addition to the improved Siri AI, the OS 27 updates include major platform improvements to make everything faster, smoother, and more consistent, as well as a significant overhaul of trust and safety features for families.
The first beta builds are based on the most recent Developer Beta releases, specifically Beta 3, which was released on July 3 for iOS, tvOS, watchOS, and visionOS. For iPadOS and macOS, Apple released an updated version 2 of the Beta 3 build for developers, which is now available to public beta testers.
To join the Apple Public Beta Program, users need a valid Apple ID. They can enroll by visiting the Apple Beta Software Program webpage and signing in with their Apple ID and agreeing to the terms and conditions.
Once enrolled, users can select the operating system they want to test, such as iOS, iPadOS, or macOS, and follow the prompts to enroll their device. To enable updates, users can go to their device's settings and select the Public Beta option.
For iPhone and iPad users, this involves going to Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates and selecting the Public Beta. For Mac users, they can go to System Settings > General > Software Update, click the information icon next to Beta Updates, and choose the Public Beta.
