[Digital Today reporter Jinju Hong (홍진주)] Apple released iOS 27.2, reinforcing its latest features, while also providing a security update for users of an earlier version. For the foldable "iPhone Duo," it added Apple Pencil support and a video-call lighting feature, widening how the device can be used.

On Oct. 26 local time, IT media outlet 9to5Mac said Apple released iOS 26.7.2 alongside iOS 27.2. iOS 27.2 is a major update that includes changes to Messages, Apple TV and Podcasts, as well as a redesign of Apple Music. iOS 26.7.2 adds no new features and focuses on security fixes.

The update includes 2 iPhone Duo-only features. First, it officially supports the Apple Pencil (USB-C), enabling writing, annotations and simple sketches on both the external display and the internal foldable screen. Users can also leave notes on PDFs or images. Supported models are limited to the Apple Pencil (USB-C).

The iPhone Duo's video-call features were also strengthened. iOS 27.2 adds an "Edge Light" feature that creates a light border around the edge of the screen to illuminate faces. It is designed to make faces appear brighter during video calls in dark environments without separate lighting. It can be used not only on FaceTime but also on third-party video-call apps such as Zoom.

It also ties into the iPhone Duo's design, which allows users to stand the folded screen up like a laptop. Users can use Edge Light when making video calls without holding the device, which is expected to improve hands-free calling convenience. Apple applied the feature to the iPhone Duo first as it expands functions previously offered in macOS to iOS.

The Apple Pencil support also means the iPhone Duo is being extended beyond a device for consuming content to one that can handle document work and handwriting. Productivity functions have been strengthened as it becomes possible to use the large screen for handwritten notes, document review and image editing. With the addition of the video-call lighting feature, the range of uses in work and daily life has widened.

Separately, iOS 26.7.2 is provided for users who continue to use iOS 26. Apple said no new functions are included in this version, but recommended updating immediately for the latest security fixes. At the time of release, it did not disclose details of which vulnerabilities were fixed.

The simultaneous releases show Apple's support approach of concentrating feature improvements on the latest operating system while providing security maintenance for earlier versions. iPhone Duo users can newly use handwriting and video-call functions through iOS 27.2, while iOS 26 users can keep their existing environment while applying a security update.