Apple releases iOS 27.2.1 with fixes for Bluetooth, AirPlay and Messages flaws

Apple has released iOS 27.2.1 and iPadOS 27.2.1 for supported iPhones and iPads. The release was reported by Spider's Web on 10 October...

The update is for devices running iOS 27 and fixes bugs introduced in version 27.2. According to Spider's Web, it is a large download: on one tested iPhone it was 1.21 GB.

What the fixes cover

The release notes are very brief. Apple says only that the update contains bug and security fixes. According to the description on the company's support page, the changes cover three areas:

• Bluetooth,
• AirPlay,
• the Messages app.

The Bluetooth flaw appears to be the most serious. A malicious Bluetooth device could connect to an iPhone without the user's consent, potentially allowing, for example, a phone call to be eavesdropped on, at least briefly. Another bug could have led to memory corruption in a process.

In AirPlay, the technology for wirelessly sending video, photos and audio to other devices, it was possible to bypass the pairing rate limit and gain unauthorised access.

The third flaw affected Messages. An attacker could remotely join a group iMessage conversation and read other people's correspondence. In addition, a person added to a group could see message history from before they joined.

Were the flaws exploited?

It is not known whether the vulnerabilities were exploited in practice. Apple says they have been fixed in the new version.

What this means for you

All iPhone and iPad users, including those in the UK, can install the update. To do so, check the device settings for the new version and download it. It is worth doing sooner rather than later if your phone is used for private calls and messages, as the fixes concern wireless connectivity and messaging.