Just a while ago, we reported about the arrival of the Apple iOS 16.3 software update will to the public next week. Ahead of this rollout, Apple has started seeding out the iOS 16.3 RC (Release Candidate) builds to developers and public beta users for testing purposes.
Along with the iOS 16.3 RC update, Apple also rolling out the release candidate version of the upcoming iPadOS 16.3, watchOS 9.3, macOS 13.2, tvOS 16.3 updates. Read on as we detail what to expect from the iOS 16.3 RC update.
Registered developers and public beta users can now download the iOS 16.3 and iPadOS 16.3, watchOS 9.3, macOS 13.2, tvOS 16.3 profiles from the Apple Developer Center, and the betas will also be available over the air. Meanwhile, you can check for the update by going to the Settings app, choosing General, then choosing Software Update and install it.
The iOS 16.3 update includes the ability to use physical security keys to protect Apple IDs. With this update, you will get a physical hardware device that you can set up to serve as the second layer of two-factor authentication for your account. Apple claims that the physical security key brings strong protection against phishing and unauthorized account access. Apple users will be required two physical security keys when using this feature, as there needs to be a backup in case one is lost. If you lose a security key, you would be losing the access to an Apple ID, as Apple cannot override the protection.
iOS 16.3 lets users take advantage of the Handoff features between iPhone and HomePod. This update also brings a new Black Unity wallpaper and watch face for iPhone and Apple Watch users.
Back in December, iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max owners have started complaining about the horizontal lines appeared during their phones waking up or restarting. Apple confirms this issue will be fixed through this update.
Along with the above fixes, Apple has provided a full changelog of this update:
- New Unity wallpaper honors Black history and culture in celebration of Black History Month
- Security Keys for Apple ID allow users to strengthen the security of their account by requiring a physical security key as part of the two-factor authentication sign-in process on new devices
- Support for HomePod (2nd generation)
- Emergency SOS calls now require holding the side button with the up or down volume button and then releasing in order to prevent inadvertent emergency calls
- Fixes an issue in Freeform where some drawing strokes created with Apple Pencil or your finger may not appear on shared boards
- Addresses an issue where the wallpaper may appear black on the Lock Screen
- Fixes an issue where horizontal lines may temporarily appear while waking up iPhone 14 Pro Max
- Fixes an issue where the Home Lock Screen widget does not accurately display Home app status
- Addresses an issue where Siri may not respond properly to music requests
- Resolves issues where Siri requests in CarPlay may not be understood correctly
To install the release candidate of the iOS releases, you first need to enroll for the beta program. Click Sign Up on the Apple Beta page and register with your Apple ID and log in to the Beta Software Program.
Source: Apple