Like clockwork, the latest version of the iPhone and iPad operating system, iOS 16.3, is here, ready to make your phone experience even better and more secure. With each new version of iOS, Apple introduces new features, security patches, and bug fixes. This update is no exception. Here’s what you need to know about iOS 16.3, including which iPhones and iPads support the new OS, exciting new features, and bug fixes.
Supported Devices
iOS 16.3 supports iPhone 12 range, iPhone 11 range, and iPhone XS. It also supports devices beginning with the iPhone SE, iPhone 7, and iPhone 6S, plus the 7th generation iPod touch and the iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad 5th generation, and iPad mini 4th generation. Lastly, it supports the 2nd generation 12.9-inch and 9.7-inch iPad Pro, and the 1st generation 10.5-inch iPad Pro.
New Features
The most notable new feature of iOS 16.3 is support for the Apple Watch Series 4 & 5 Sleep Tracking. The feature allows you to track your sleep with the built-in motion sensors in your watch. It tracks your sleep stages, quality of sleep, and more and displays a detailed report of your sleep on the Health app in your iPhone.
iOS 16.3 also adds support for the new AirTag tracking device. This small device can be attached to items you want to track, such as a wallet or car keys. Once the AirTags are attached to those items, you can quickly find them using the Find My app on your iPhone.
Also, the iOS 16.3 update introduces several improvements to Apple Music. This includes the ability to create automatic, live curated radio stations for artists and albums. Interestingly enough, Apple Music also now offers “unavailable music options” when a particular song is not available from the Apple Music catalogue.
In addition, Homekit Secure Video has also been improved upon. Homekit now offers support for properly formatted, not encrypted, home security camera footage.
Bug Fixes
As for bug fixes, iOS 16.3 fixes a bug that could have prevented the playback of certain songs purchased from the iTunes Store. It also improves audio quality when streaming over certain car stereos and Bluetooth connections.
Lastly, iOS 16.3 fixes several security bugs that could allow a remote attacker to gain access to the iPhone’s chipset.
Conclusion
With iOS 16.3, Apple has given users plenty of new features to explore and appreciate. From tracking your sleep with your watch to finding lost items with AirTags and improving on audio streaming, it’s a great time to be an iPhone user. As always, make sure to keep your iPhone and iPad running the latest version of iOS for the best security and features.
