Unveiling iOS 16.5: 10 Essential Updates You Shouldn't Miss!
Written on
Chapter 1: Introduction to iOS 16.5
The previous update, iOS 16.4, was quite extensive, boasting a total of 62 new features and modifications. I assumed that there wouldn’t be much left for the subsequent update, iOS 16.5, especially with the anticipation surrounding iOS 17. However, Apple once again surprised me. Below is a compilation of notable features introduced in iOS 16.5.
Section 1.1: Concert Discovery on Apple Music and Maps
Apple Music now highlights upcoming concerts by your favorite artists in your vicinity (availability may vary by location). Additionally, Maps will assist you in navigating to these events.
Section 1.2: Reduced Minimum Battery Requirement for Updates
According to reports from 'Is iOS 16 Stable' on Twitter, iOS 16.5 has lowered the minimum battery requirement for installation to 20%. Previously, developers needed to have over 50% battery to install updates. This significant change means that users no longer have to wait until their battery is fully charged to proceed with an update.
Section 1.3: New 'Pride' Wallpaper and Section
With the introduction of iOS 16.4 Beta 4, Apple created a dedicated section for the Pride wallpaper. This update brings new Pride-themed wallpapers, Apple Watch faces, and bands, all revealed with iOS 16.5.
Section 1.4: Enhanced Security for Tap to Pay
A new security feature has been added for apps that support "Tap to Pay" on the iPhone (such as Stripe). In the settings for the relevant app, users can find an option labeled "Always Play Sounds," which will emit a sound whenever a payment is processed, regardless of whether the phone is on silent mode.
Section 1.5: News App Upgrades
- New Sports Section: Apple has introduced a dedicated Sports tab in the News app's navigation bar, reflecting the increasing popularity of sports content.
- Persistent Navigation Bar: The navigation bar now remains visible while browsing saved stories or other sections, enhancing user experience.
- Suggestion Buttons: A new "Suggest More/Suggest Less" button appears above articles, allowing users to refine their content recommendations more effectively.
Section 1.6: VoiceOver Command Enhancements
For users of VoiceOver, two new commands—Scroll to Bottom and Scroll to Top—have been added, allowing for quicker navigation through content.
Chapter 2: Beta Enrollment Changes
With iOS 16.5, Apple has simplified the process for beta enrollment. Previously, users had to download a beta profile, but this is no longer necessary. Instead, beta updates can now be accessed directly through the Software Update section.
This video explores the hidden features of iOS 16.5, offering insights into what users can expect from this major update.
In this video, we take a closer look at the readiness of iOS 16.5, discussing its key features and overall performance enhancements.
Section 2.1: Other Notable Features
- Removal of “Select All”: Users have reported that the "Select All" option has been eliminated in Safari, requiring manual selection of text.
- Emergency SOS Expansion: The Emergency SOS feature is now available in Australia and New Zealand.
- Apple Savings Account Launch: Apple has partnered with Goldman Sachs to introduce a high-yield savings account within the Wallet app, currently available only in the U.S.
Appendix: Siri Screen Recording Feature
Although this feature was available in iOS 16.5 Beta 1, it was removed in subsequent versions. Initially, users could initiate screen recording via Siri commands. However, the feature encountered several bugs and was ultimately removed, likely for further refinement.
Isn’t iOS 16 fascinating? For a comprehensive list of over 260 features, check out the latest compilation.