Apple releases iOS 16.3 with new features, improvements and bug fixes
Apple released last Monday version 16.3 of its mobile operating system iOS. The new build has added some news to the ecosystem, as well as traditional bug fixes and stability improvements.
According to the update notes, the “Emergency SOS” feature received an iOS 16.3 adjustment to avoid accidental calls to authorities. Now the user needs to release the side and/or volume button to make a call and not just push the buttons.
Apple has also released iCloud Advanced Data Protection worldwide, which offers end-to-end encryption in service backups, which now supports 23 categories of stored data. Until then, only 14 were covered.
Also in the security, iOS 16.3 introduces hardware security key support to protect Apple ID. The measure will allow the use of two-factor physical authentication with an external token connected to the device to access the account.
In personalization, Apple has added new Unity themes to celebrate Black History Month, a very representative date in the United States. Included are colorful themed wallpapers for mobile phones and faceplates for your Apple Watch.
Apple said it fixed design issues in the Freeform app, a bug that made the wallpaper appear black on the locked screen, an error that caused the iPhone 14 Pro Max to display horizontal lines, and another that prevented the “Hey, Siri” setup.
Finally, the new version of the software has added compatibility with the second-generation HomePod. To download the update, simply open the Settings app, tap General, search for software update, and “Download and install”.
It is also worth mentioning that iOS 15.7.3 (19H307) was also released for devices that are not compatible with iOS 16. This new build includes some security fixes and stability improvements.
iOS 16 is compatible with these devices
- iPhone 14
- iPhone 14 Plus
- iPhone 14 Pro
- iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 mini
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 mini
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone XR
- iPhone X
- iPhone 8
- iPhone 8 Plus
- iPhone SE (2nd generation)
- iPhone SE (3rd generation)