Apple News & Rumors, Feb. 9: iOS 9.3, Siri-Powered TV & iPhone 6c

Apple is rumored to be working on VR and releasing a new Apple TV OS that integrates the full power of Siri. (Getty)

With a rare mid-cycle iPhone launch slated for next month, rumors about Apple and Mac are running wild. These are the main rumors and news for February 9. They include details about the iPhone 6c, the Apple TV, the Apple Watch, and iOS 9.3, and virtual reality.

Here’s what you need to know.

Apple Moving Closer to iOS 9.3 With Third Beta to Developers

Two months ago, Apple released iOS 9.2 to the public. Now it’s already releasing its third beta of iOS 9.3 to registered developers for testing, according to 9-to-5 Mac and Mac Rumors. These test versions are revealing that iOS 9.3 could include a lot of new features, including new 3D Touch shortcuts, a new Night Shift mode, Touch-ID protected notes, and pairing with WatchOS 2.2. Developers can download this new beta through the Apple Developer Center and over-the-air update channels.

Apple Looking Into Virtual Reality for iOS

Apple is looking into implementing virtual reality in its iOS within two years, Mac Rumors reported. The company’s recent hires and purchases are indicating VR support could launch in 2018. Apple may be looking into mixed reality wearables, such as optics that use embedded cameras to blend holographic imagery with real-life. The assertions are being made by Piper Jaffray analyst Gene Munster. Mac Rumors reports that the analyst’s assertions in the past about Apple haven’t always come to fruition.

However, Financial Times reported that Apple built a secret research unit that employs hundreds who are experimenting with virtual reality and augmented reality technologies.

Full Siri Is Coming to Apple TV

Apple TV currently only has limited used of Siri, but that’s not expected to last long, Forbes reported. The tvOS 9.2 could include integrating the full power of Siri with Apple TV. This could include improved dictation for spelling user names and passwords rather than slowly and painstakingly typing them. It may also include improved searching via the virtual assistant. Experts are speculating that Apple may unveil these full features at its March 15 event.

The iPhone 6c May Be a Smaller Size and iPhone 7 May Have Super AMOLED

Rumors are constantly circulating about the iPhone. According to Motley Fool, a rumored iPhone 6c (or 6se) may feature a smaller screen than the iPhone 6, possibly in the four-inch size range. This smaller phone would retail for about $450 without subsidies. The phone may come in colors that include silver, gray, and bright pink.

Meanwhile, a leaked render of the iPhone 7 may indicate that the highly anticipated phone will use Super AMOLED screens, IBTimes reported. However, competing rumors are speculating those features won’t come until 2018. Rumors are also indicating the iPhone 7 may have a waterproof chassis and ceramic rear panels, along with a new metallic frame.