Apple is introducing the latest iOS 16 update today, bringing a host of new features. Let’s explore what’s new in this update.
Highlighted Features in iOS 16
Customizable Lock Screen
iOS 16 offers extensive customization options for your Lock Screen, including personalized photos, widgets, fonts, color filters, and more. You can set your Lock Screen wallpaper to change automatically from various sources and create multiple customized lock screens to suit your preferences.
The update also supports widgets on the Lock Screen, allowing quick access to essential information like weather, battery status, calendar events, and more. Notifications can be displayed at the bottom of the screen in different styles, and upcoming features will include Live Activities for easy tracking without unlocking the device.
Enhanced Focus Mode
The Focus Mode in iOS 16, similar to a do-not-disturb setting, has been improved for easier setup. Users can now whitelist or blacklist contacts to manage notifications effectively. Focus filters in apps like Calendar and Messages allow for customized filtering of distracting content.
There are two profiles, Work Focus and Personal Focus, that users can switch between seamlessly, with Work Focus displaying widgets for upcoming meetings and to-do lists on the Lock Screen.
iMessage Enhancements
The iMessage app in iOS 16 now supports message editing, unsending messages, marking messages as unread, and sharing various content like reminders, notes, and more with contacts. SharePlay functionality enables users to enjoy music, shows, or movies while texting friends.
Improved Mail App
The Mail app in iOS 16 features an enhanced Search tool with real-time suggestions and Undo Send capability. Users can also schedule messages to be sent at a later time, benefit from rich link previews, and receive follow-up prompts for unanswered emails.
Live Text and Visual Lookup
New features like Live Text allow users to extract text from images and videos, while Visual Lookup offers background removal and subject extraction capabilities for images.
Safari Browser Updates
Safari introduces Passkeys for password-less sign-ins using biometric authentication. Shared Tab Groups enable collaborative browsing, allowing users to share tabs and bookmarks with family and friends.
iOS 16 Eligible iPhones
- iPhone 8 and newer models
Before updating to iOS 16, remember to back up your device. To install the update, navigate to Settings > General > Software Update, then tap Download and Install. Ensure your device is plugged in during the update process.
Exclusive Features for Modern iPhones
Some iOS 16 features are restricted to newer iPhones, such as Live Captions, Live Text, Visual Look Up, and Door Detection. Battery percentage display on the status bar is limited to select models.
In addition to iOS 16, Apple is expected to release iPadOS 16, macOS Ventura 13, and new M2 Macs and iPads soon.
Image Source: Poetra.RH / Shutterstock
