iOS 16.2 Update: What’s New?

Apple has finally launched the official iOS 16.2 update for iPhones, and the new software patch brings some improvements and new features to the mobile platform. With that said, we’re here to take a quick look at what users can expect with iOS 16.2 – let’s get started!

Freeform

The new update comes with Freeform, a new app that allows for creative working with friends via other Apple devices including tablets and computers. Freeform comes with a flexible canvas that lets you add files, images, stickies and more. You can also draw anywhere on the canvas using your fingers.

Apple Music Sing

Apple Music Sing is included in the new update, and lets users sing along to their favourite songs (think karaoke in the palm of your hand) via Apple Music. It comes with fully adjustable vocals so folks looking to belt out tunes can sing along with the original artist, or even go solo. It also comes with beat-by-beat lyrics, so you can easily follow the rhythm of your favourite tracks.

Emergency SOS via Satellite

Available for iPhone 14 series models, Emergency SOS via Satellite is now available with iOS 16.2, allowing users to reach emergency services even without Wi-Fi or cellular services through a quick interface on their device, which will then transmit immediate information such as a user’s current location and situation. Additionally, a user’s iPhone will then send an initial message which includes other information such as altitude, iPhone battery level, and Medical ID to responders, allowing for quicker aid and assistance.

More Settings

Apple has also added several other settings, including:

• Changes to the new lock screen settings for the iPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max, which allow users to hide wallpapers and notifications when Always-On display is enabled.
• New widgets including the Sleep Widget and Medication Widget allow users to view their most recent sleep data, as well as your list of medication and reminders.
• New Game Center features like SharePlay come with support for multiplayer games, so users can play with people on active FaceTime calls.
• AirDrop now automatically reverts to “Contacts Only” after ten minutes to prevent unwanted requests to receive content.

Of course, these are only a fraction of the updates that are available in the latest iOS update, which also comes with fixes for performance issues and security. Do note that some features (like SOS calling) are region-exclusive, so they might not appear in certain markets.