The updates include a new security feature and wallpaper to honor Black History Month.
The latest iOS update, iOS 16.3, began rolling out to iPhone users on Monday. With this update, Apple brings some minor but noticeable changes and new features to the app. The company is also offering users a new wallpaper option in honor of Black History Month.
Let’s take a look at some of the features that iOS 16.3 brings to your mobile device.
The biggest new feature is the Security Keys option, which allows users to require a physical security key when setting up a new device or resetting their passwords. The physical security key would replace the verification codes sent to your existing devices as part of the two-factor authentication process. According to Apple, the feature will only work with FIDO-certified third-party hardware(Opens in a new tab).
If you ever need to use Apple’s Emergency SOS with Satellite option, the latest update offers a new way to do it. Users will need to hold down the side button and one of the volume control buttons, then release the buttons after a short countdown. This new feature seems to solve the problem of accidentally using the Emergency SOS function.
Along with these changes and new features, Apple is including a new iPhone wallpaper in its Black Unity collection to celebrate Black History Month.
The new iOS 16.3 also supports the new Homepod 2, which will hit stores next month.
A full list of other assorted updates and bug fixes from Apple in iOS 16.3:
-
New Unity Wallpaper Pays Homage to Black History and Culture to Celebrate Black History Month
-
Apple ID Security Keys allow users to increase account security by requiring a physical security key as part of the two-factor authentication sign-in process on new devices.
-
HomePod (2nd Gen) support
-
Emergency SOS calls now require holding down the side button with the volume up or down button and then releasing to avoid inadvertent emergency calls
-
Fixes an issue in Freeform where certain drawing strokes created with Apple Pencil or your finger may not appear on shared boards
-
Fixes an issue where the wallpaper may appear black on the lock screen
-
Fixes an issue where horizontal lines may temporarily appear when waking up the iPhone 14 Pro Max
-
Fixes an issue where the Home Lock Screen widget does not accurately display the status of the Home app
-
Fixes an issue where Siri may not respond correctly to music requests
-
Fixes issues where Siri requests in CarPlay may not be understood correctly
If you have an iPhone 8 or newer, you can check for the update by going to your iPhone’s Settings, tapping General, and then tapping Software Update.