A few hours ago, Apple has started rolling out the iPadOS 16.4 update, bringing some minor updates to the operating system. These updates include new Shortcuts, additional emojis, and a new feature for toggling Stage Manager. Although the beta cycle for this update has been ongoing for a while, no major features were revealed during the testing period.
With WWDC 2023 around the corner and the anticipated release of iPadOS 17, users should not expect any significant changes from this update. Despite some minor UI tweaks and additions made to the overall iOS system during the beta period, iPadOS saw even fewer changes. However, this release could be seen as a preparation for the next update and may help ensure a smoother transition to iPadOS 17.
Apple’s latest update for iPadOS, version 16.4, has been released with a few minor updates including new Shortcuts, additional emojis, and the ability to toggle Stage Manager. Apple’s latest update, iPadOS 16.4, is not a significant overhaul but rather a minor one with a few tweaks and additions.
Although the beta cycle for this update has been ongoing for a while, no major features were revealed during the testing period. With WWDC 2023 around the corner and the anticipated release of iPadOS 17, users should not expect any significant changes from this update. Despite some minor UI tweaks and additions made to the overall iOS system during the beta period, iPadOS saw even fewer changes.
However, this release could be seen as a preparation for the next update and may help ensure a smoother transition to iPadOS 17.
With the release of iPadOS 16.4, Apple has deprecated update profiles for beta access, and users can now manage their update preferences in the Settings app. Additionally, users can now choose which Apple ID is associated with a paid developer account when installing developer betas.
This is particularly beneficial for developers with multiple Apple IDs, as it allows them to install updates without having to pay for a developer account twice.
Apple’s move away from beta profiles is aimed at preventing users from sharing the profiles online, which could pose a security risk. This change will encourage more users to wait for the safer public betas or pay the $100 fee to access the developer betas. Ultimately, this will help ensure a more secure and stable beta testing environment and provide developers with a better experience.
The latest addition to the emoji collection is the Unicode Standard for Emoji Update 15.0, which was announced in July 2022. This update includes new icons such as a shaking face, a goose, a hyacinth, and a plain pink heart. The new emoji have been added to several operating systems, including macOS Ventura 13.3 and watchOS 9.4.
However, it’s important to note that users running older versions of iOS and macOS, as well as other operating systems, will not be able to view the new emoji, even if someone who has updated their device sends them. The new emoji may add some fun and creativity to messaging and other applications, but users should ensure that they have the latest operating system updates installed to view and use them.
With the latest update, Apple has included several new Shortcut actions that allow users to control device settings more efficiently. These new Shortcut actions include “Set Stage Manager,” “Silence Unknown Callers,” “Set True Tone,” “Set Announce Notifications,” “Shut Down,” “Lock Screen,” “Set Always On Display,” “Intercom,” “Set VPN,” “Set AirDrop Receiving,” and “Set Night Shift.” However, it’s important to note that these Shortcuts will only be applicable to specific hardware. For example, “Set Stage Manager” will only toggle the feature on iPads with M-series processors. Both iPhone and iPad users can enjoy these new Shortcut actions, but only if their hardware supports them. The inclusion of these new Shortcuts will make it easier for users to access and control device settings, ultimately improving their experience with their devices.
To install iPadOS 16.4 on your iPad, follow these steps:
- Open the Settings app on your iPad.
- Select “General” from the list of options.
- Scroll down and select “Software Update.”
- Your device will check for the availability of the update. If it’s available, you’ll see “Update to iPadOS 16.4.” Select this option.
- Tap “Download and Install.”
- Your iPad will begin downloading the update. This may take some time depending on your internet speed.
- Once the download is complete, tap “Install Now” to begin the installation process.
- Your device will restart as part of the installation process. Make sure to save any unsaved work before you begin.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
If your iPad is set to update automatically, it will handle downloading and installing iPadOS 16.4 on your behalf.