The update to iOS 16.4 can now be officially downloaded and brings many innovations and optimizations with it.
In this article we explain which new functions you can look forward to and how you can download the latest iPhone update.
iOS 16.4: These are the new features of the iPhone update
As we already suspected, iOS 16.4 was released in March 2023. In addition to many small optimizations, the update includes important and useful features that we have already tested in the past few weeks as part of the beta.
iOS 16.4 brings voice isolation to cellular calls
Voice isolation mode is now available for cellular calls. This eliminates external noise for the conversation partner and clearly emphasizes the voice. We have already tested this function in practice and are very positively surprised:
iOS 16.4: This hidden new iPhone function is already my big highlight
Previously, this feature was only enabled for FaceTime and VoIP calls.
Duplicate detection for iCloud shared albums
The ability to detect duplicates of saved photos and videos is now extended to Shared Albums. Previously, a separate album with the duplicates was only provided in the Photos app.
iPhone always keeps the higher quality version when deleting.
Change in participation in beta versions for developers
In the future, beta participation for developers will be linked to the Apple ID. The aim is to simplify the process for developers. With this, the latest beta version can be activated for developers in the settings.
At the same time, access is restricted. So far, access to the beta profile has been available to everyone without a developer account.
iPhone and iPad receive push notifications for web apps
Web apps that are linked to the start screen can in future send push notifications under iOS 16.4. The applications also send notifications for the lock screen.
Previously, this option was only permitted for official apps from the company’s own app store. In this context, third-party providers are given the option of displaying a corresponding button in order to add the website to the iPhone’s home screen.
In addition, the push notifications of the web apps can be taken into account in the focus modes.
New emojis are landing on the iPhone
These are the emojis based on Unicode 15.0.
More emojis are available on the iPhone with iOS 16.4. Fans of such icons can look forward to new emojis based on Unicode 15.0.
The old new HomeKit architecture finally lands on the iPhone
Apple already published the new Homekit architecture with the release of iOS 16.2. It was later removed again as the revamped app caused major issues.
Now the new architecture is finding its way back into the iPhone operating system with iOS 16.4. The upgrade increases the reliability of the smart home accessory.
Apple books with iconic animation
With the latest update, the iconic “roll up” animation for turning a page within Apple Books returns. None o ther than Steve Jobs introduced this popular animation to the public a long time ago.
If you use Apple Books, you have a choice of two animations: rolling up or pushing.
Now, rollup is being reintegrated with iOS 16.4. You have a total of two effects for turning a page. The animation can also be switched off in the options.
Improvement of Apple Podcast
With the update to iOS 16.4, Apple’s own podcast app gets minor improvements:
- Individual channels that have been subscribed to can be accessed via the media library.
- The “Up Next” feature will be improved. Episodes can be continued and episodes can be removed to skip.
- Episodes you have started can be continued or new episodes can be explored via Apple CarPlay.
iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max: New features for the always-on display
With the new update, Apple is also adding more features to the always-on display. The effects of the always-on display on the battery life can now be assessed in the smartphone settings.
You can also consider the display function in the focus modes. Those who like to use Apple’s shortcut app will now also find a new option for the always-on display there.
More improvements in iOS 16.4
In addition to the major and noteworthy functions, the latest update for the iPhone operating system also hides many smaller improvements:
- New VPN and lock screen options are available in the Shortcuts app.
- For the coverage of the Apple Care devices, an overview of the products can be found in the settings.
- Apple News gets a preview feature for mastodon links.
- Apple Wallet is getting a new home screen widget to track orders.
- Apple Music gets visual improvements, including new icons, and adding a song to the queue will now add a subtle notification to the bottom bar.
- VoiceOver is supported for maps in the Weather app.
- Accident detection will be further optimized for the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro models.
- In the settings there is another option for accessibility. Videos can now be automatically dimmed when flashes of light or stroboscopic effects are detected.
- Fixed an issue where Matter-compatible thermostats would become unresponsive after pairing with Apple Home
Update to iOS 16.4: This is how you install the new version on the iPhone
The new version is now available for download. Open the settings on the iPhone and tap on “Software update” under “General”. The download for iOS 16.4 can then be started.
You can find more helpful and hidden tips and tricks about the iPhone operating system in these articles:
The update to iOS 16.4 is now finally live and, as always, can be downloaded via the iPhone’s settings. We were able to test some of the above functions in advance. What do you think of the new features of the update? Is there something for you or do you think it is rather unnecessary improvements? Write us your opinion in the comments!
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