Apple released iOS 27 Beta 4: the update improves Siri, CarPlay, and system stability

Apple has released the fourth beta build of iOS 27 and iPadOS 27, which is already available for developers and participants of the early testing program. There are few major new features this time — the focus is primarily on refining the already introduced capabilities, fixing identified bugs, and improving system stability ahead of its official launch this fall.

A New Testing Phase Before the Fall Release

Two weeks after the release of the third beta version, Apple presented iOS 27 Beta 4 and iPadOS 27 Beta 4. The main emphasis in this release is not on the emergence of a large number of new features but on getting already announced functions ready and addressing known issues.

Registered developers can install the new build. To do this, simply go to "Settings" → "General" → "Software Update" → "Beta Updates" and select iOS 27 Developer Beta. The testing program supports over 30 models of iPhones.

Support for the PlayStation Adaptive Controller

One of the most noteworthy innovations of the current testing cycle is the full system support for the Sony PlayStation Access adaptive controller.

This feature is available in several Apple operating systems — iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. Users will be able to create their own control profiles directly in the gaming controller settings and then save them on the device for future use.

Apple Intelligence in Home Will Not Be Available to Everyone

Among the changes that appeared in previous beta versions, there is one quite controversial aspect. Apple decided to tie the camera's intelligent features in the Home app to an iCloud+ subscription with storage of 2 TB or more.

This means that only owners of the higher-tier plan will be able to take advantage of Apple Intelligence features. Many users have already noted that such a limitation seems unexpectedly harsh: the function works on devices for which money has already been paid, but without an expensive subscription, it will simply be unavailable.

Siri, CarPlay, and Other Apps Have Become More Stable

Most of the changes in Beta 4 are related to internal system refinements. Apple reports fixing bugs and improving the reliability of the operation of several components, including:

• Siri;
• CarPlay;
• Messages;
• Photos;
• Safari.

Additionally, engineers have resolved stability issues that caused some devices to freeze or crash, even when in standby mode without active use.

AirPort Utility Gradually Becomes Obsolete

An important detail has appeared in the new beta version. The AirPort Utility app can no longer be reinstalled from the App Store.

Users who already have the program installed can continue to use it. However, Apple warns that it does not guarantee its stable operation in the future.

Other Apple Platforms Have Also Been Updated

Simultaneously with iOS 27 Beta 4, the company released new beta versions of its other operating systems:

• macOS 27 Golden Gate Beta 4;
• watchOS 27 Beta 4;
• tvOS 27 Beta 4;
• visionOS 27 Beta 4.

Apple publishes a detailed list of changes on the Apple Developer portal. Access is provided after logging in to a developer account.