Apple released iOS 16.2, iPadOS 16.2, WatchOS 9.2 and MacOS 13.1 on Tuesday, along with new software for its HomePod and Apple TV lineup. These updates bring new features and functionality to Apple hardware, ranging from the option to enable
) to the Apple Watch which benefits from new training features for runners and cyclists.
You can download and install all updates through the usual means now, or wait a few days if you don’t like to test new software before others to make sure there are no bugs or problems on launch day.
Below, I’ll show you the main features of what’s new in each update.
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What’s new in iOS 16.2
With the release of iOS 16.2, the iPhone receives several new key features. For iPhone 14 owners, Apple has addressed some complaints about the always-on display, which made the device look like it was actually on. Two new settings let you disable wallpaper and notifications from appearing when your phone is locked and idle.
You can start the enrollment process for advanced data protection, i.e. encrypted iCloud backups, after you update your iPhone to iOS 16.2. Each Apple device connected to your iCloud account will need to run the latest Apple software to enroll your account in the new security measure.
Also included in the update is Apple’s Freeform app. Provides access to all tabs created on other Apple devices. Apple’s karaoke feature, Apple Music Sing, will also be available after the update.
Other features include support for the new Home architecture, new lock screen widgets for medication reminders and sleep tracking.
Also, your iPhone’s AirDrop privacy settings will enforce a 10-minute open limit for everyone, after which it will revert back to the previous setting.
Jason Cipriani/ZDNET
What’s new in iPadOS 16.2
The iPad range is getting an update to iPadOS 16.2, which offers all the same core features as iOS 16.2: Freeform, plus improvements for Home, AirDrop and iCloud backup.
The most notable addition to the iPad is the improved Stage Manager, the multitasking experience that debuted with iPadOS 16.1. Apple has refined the overall Stage Manager experience, adding true external monitor support for the iPad Air and iPad Pro models.
Once a compatible iPad is connected to a display, you have two completely independent Home screens that can each display up to four windows of active apps at once.
What’s new in WatchOS 9.2
The Apple Watch is not entitled to the Freeform app. But it has some new fitness-focused features.
Apple is adding automatic running track detection, which uses Apple Maps and GPS data, to determine if you’re on a standard 400-meter track. When you start a trail running session, your watch asks you which lane you’re using to better calculate distance and other training metrics.
Additionally, the Apple Watch has a running route feature that will use your old training routes for running or cycling outdoors and allow you to measure yourself against your previous best workout.
What’s new in macOS 13.1
Screenshot by Jason Cipriani/ZDNET
The MacOS Ventura 13.1 update includes many of the same features as its iPhone and iPad counterparts. You’ll get access to the Freeform app, support for encrypted iCloud backups and, for the first time ever, have the ability to request an AirTag to play a sound to help you find a lost item using the Find My app.
What about HomePod and Apple TV?
Apple’s smart speaker and streaming box are also getting an update. The HomePod 16.2 software update delivers an all-new “core architecture” that aims to improve the overall HomeKit experience for adding and controlling connected home devices. After you’ve updated your HomePod, you’ll need to activate the upgrade to the new architecture in the Home app.
As for Apple TV, TVOS 16.2 brings Apple Music Sing, a karaoke feature, to the latest Apple TV 4K. Apple TV and the Siri Voice Remote will also have the ability to switch between Apple TV profiles using voice recognition.
