Apple released iOS 16.3 and iPadOS 16.3 publicly after several weeks of beta testing. This update brings many new features, including a fix for the line problem that appears on the iPhone 14 Pro Max screen.
The changes brought to iOS 16.3 are actually fairly minor, but this update puts security first. So for iPhone users who focus on data and account security, this update must be installed.
As reported by MacRumors, Tuesday (24/1/2023), here is a list of new features and improvements in iOS 16.3:
1. Support Security Keys
Last year Apple announced support for security keys that allow users to use hardware such as Yubikey as additional protection for logging in to their Apple ID. Now this feature is available for all iPhone users.
Security Keys are designed to replace the verification code sent to Apple devices when logging in to a new device. Apple says physical security keys provide stronger protection against phishing and unauthorized account access.
Security Keys can be activated on devices running iOS 16.3 and iPadOS 16.3 by entering your Apple ID then Security Keys and following the on-screen instructions. iPhone, iPad and Mac support FIDO-certified security keys like Yubikey.
2. Unity Wallpapers
Apple added a new Unity wallpaper designed to commemorate Black History Month which falls in February.
3. Support for HomePod
iOS 16.3 and iPadOS 16.3 added support for the second-generation HomePod that launched last week. HomePod 2 has the same shape as the original version, but with a new touch interface, support for humidity and temperature sensors, Thread connectivity, UI chip, and more.
4. Changes for Emergency SOS
The Emergency SOS feature is updated to prevent users from accidentally making emergency calls. Emergency calls can still be made by pressing the power button together with the volume up or down button, but now the button must also be released so calls can be forwarded.
5. Repair the iPhone 14 Pro Max display
iPhone 14 Pro Max users have complained about the appearance of horizontal lines on the screen when the iPhone is turned on. Now the issue has been fixed with the iOS 16.3 update and the horizontal line should no longer appear.
6. A series of bug fixes
iOS 16.3 and iPadOS 16.3 also fix several bugs, including an issue with Freeform, an issue where the wallpaper appeared black on the Lock Screen, an issue where Siri was not responding properly to music requests, and more.
How to update and install iOS 16.3
Backup data on iPhone using iCloud to ensure no data is lost
Open the Settings app > General > Software Update
Click Download and Install
Follow the on-screen instructions and wait for the download to complete
Wait for the installation process to complete to ensure iOS 16.3 is successfully installed.