Apple software: iOS 27.2 expands group video capabilities

Apple will release iOS 27.2 next week, marking the next major software update for iPhone users. While the previous version, iOS 27.1, was limited to the iPhone Duo, the new build is scheduled for a wider rollout to the general user base.

The update extends the Dual Capture feature to group video calls. This capability, which debuted in iOS 27, allows users to display both front and rear camera feeds simultaneously. In the current version, this function is restricted to one-on-one interactions. Under the new system, participants in group calls can tap the Flip button to activate the rear camera while the front camera remains active, providing a wider visual perspective for all attendees.

Changes to the Apple Podcasts application restructure the viewing experience. The single Up Next queue at the top of the Home tab will be divided into two distinct sections. The first section, labeled New Episodes, will aggregate the latest releases from shows a user follows. Directly below this, a new section called Continue Playing will list shows that a listener has started but not yet finished, creating a centralized location for ongoing content.

The Apple TV app on iPhone will also gain support for user profiles. Although profiles have been available on the tvOS platform for Apple TV hardware, this marks their first appearance on iOS devices. Upon updating, users will encounter a profile selection screen, which can be disabled if preferred. Once a profile is active, the app curates content recommendations to match that specific viewer.

These adjustments aim to improve usability for households sharing a single device. When a child's profile is selected, the app restricts visible series and movies to age-appropriate titles from Apple. This setup helps keep an adult's viewing history separate and prevents children from accessing unsuitable material on a parent's phone.

In addition to these primary features, iOS 27.2 introduces new functions to six iPhone applications in total. The update is slated for release next week, following the beta testing phase where developers and early adopters evaluated the new podcast layout and video call tools.