How to use filtering in Messages on iOS 27

appleinsider.com Oct 6, 2026

How to use filtering in Messages on iOS 27

Curated by Shubham · TechCapsules · Oct 6, 2026

AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication

Apple expanded its Messages app with advanced filtering tools in iOS 27, building on features introduced at WWDC 2025 and launched with iOS 26. Users can now screen unknown senders, toggle notifications for time‑sensitive texts, and convert unknown contacts to known with a few taps. The update also supports third‑party filtering extensions for SMS, MMS and RCS, letting carriers tailor spam detection. Messages automatically moves suspected spam to a dedicated folder, while a manual “Report Spam” option remains for missed cases. Mis‑filtered messages can be recovered by marking them “Not Spam.” The interface accesses these controls through a hamburger menu in the top‑right corner, streamlining inbox management for iPhone users. These settings help maintain privacy and cut daily distractions now.

💡 Why It Matters

· By giving users granular control over spam, Apple turns the Messages app from a liability into a reliable communication hub, especially as phishing texts rise.

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Apple invites developers to submit iPhone Duo-ready apps to the App Store

Apple has begun accepting iPhone Duo‑optimized apps and games for the App Store, following the release of Xcode 27.1 Release Candidate 1. Developers can now build, test, and submit Duo‑ready titles via App Store Connect, where a badge will indicate optimization. Starting April 2027, all submissions must include Duo screenshots. Apple offers resources, including Device Hub for pose visualization and upcoming in‑person workshops. The iPhone Duo will be available for pre‑order on October 16, with retail deliveries beginning October 23.

💡 The new submission requirements force developers to adapt quickly, ensuring a robust app ecosystem for the Duo’s dual‑screen experience. This shift could accelerate feature innovation and set a precedent for future multi‑display devices.

appleinsider.com · Oct 6

macOS development continues to hint at touchscreen MacBooks

Apple’s macOS 27.2 beta introduces new touch‑gesture code for Safari, Notes, and QuickLook, hinting at expanded touch support for both Sidecar and a forthcoming touchscreen MacBook Pro. The beta references “ICTouchPressGestureRecognizer,” “dragTouch,” and a “touch sentinel recognizer,” though the gestures are currently only in the code. If implemented, these features would allow iPad users to control a Mac with touch and could enable a touch‑enabled MacBook Pro slated for late 2026. The update suggests Apple is consolidating touch capabilities across its ecosystem.

💡 The move signals Apple’s commitment to integrating touch into macOS, potentially redefining how users interact with Mac hardware and expanding the appeal of the MacBook Pro line.

9to5mac.com · Oct 6

Apple accuses OpenAI of improperly adding new arguments to trade secrets case

Apple has counter‑accused OpenAI of exceeding court limits by filing new arguments and evidence in its trade‑secret lawsuit. The dispute centers on Apple’s request for a preliminary injunction to protect its confidential data from being used in OpenAI’s hardware development. Apple argues that OpenAI’s reply brief and a new declaration from former employee Chang Liu introduce prohibited arguments and exceed the 5‑page limit, violating Rule 7‑3(d)(1). The case will be heard on October 14.

💡 The clash highlights how procedural rules can shape high‑stakes intellectual‑property battles, potentially setting precedent for how tech giants defend trade secrets in court.

appleinsider.com · Oct 6

Second October ‘event’ possible with new Macs as the focus

Apple is poised for a busy October, with an unannounced product reveal slated for October 13 and rumors of a second launch by month‑end. Sources say the later event could introduce new Macs featuring the M6 processor and OLED MacBook Pros with touchscreens. The October 13 show is expected to focus on Apple TV, HomePod mini, and Home Hub, likely via a press release and video rather than a live event. No official confirmation has yet been issued.

💡 The potential late‑month Mac launch could reshape Apple’s hardware lineup, offering a competitive edge in performance and display technology. This timing may also influence consumer expectations and market dynamics ahead of the holiday season.

9to5mac.com · Oct 6

Apple reportedly planning second wave of product announcements later this month

Apple is slated to hold a second product launch in the final week of October, following an October 13 event that will unveil a smart‑home hub with a screen, a new HomePod mini, and an updated Apple TV. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman confirmed the October 13 announcements, while MacRumors reports additional releases will occur later in the month, though the specifics remain undisclosed. The late‑month unveilings would bookend a hectic October that also includes the iPhone Duo launch on October 23 and the company’s quarterly earnings.

💡 The staggered schedule signals Apple’s strategy to maintain consumer buzz and maximize media coverage across multiple product categories, potentially influencing market expectations for the upcoming holiday season.

9to5mac.com · Oct 5

Upgrade to Apple Watch Series 12 or Ultra 4? Here’s how to…

Apple’s Series 12 and Ultra 4 introduce new health complications—live heart rate, step count, and readiness score—displayable on watch faces. Users can enable music detection via Smart Stack, allowing automatic song recognition without Siri. The Siri Modular face offers customizable layouts and colors. To activate readiness, users must complete Health Details, set up Activity, overnight vitals, and sleep tracking for at least seven nights. The Vitals app now shows daytime metrics, enhancing health insights. Upcoming features include Siri Recap and Live Rewind.

💡 The added complications give users real‑time health data directly on their wrist, turning the watch into a more proactive fitness companion. The new music detection and customizable faces enhance everyday usability, making the upgrade feel more than just incremental.