Apple recently introduced iOS 16.5, which brings several new features, improvements, and security patches to iPhones and iPads. This article will discuss the new updates and changes that come with this latest release.
New Features in iOS 16.5
1. Apple News Sports Tab
The Apple News app now features a Sports tab, replacing the dedicated Search tab, which has been incorporated into the Following tab. The My Sports function can now be accessed directly from the Today screen’s For You section.
2. Siri Screen Recording
With iOS 16.5, you can now use Siri to start and stop screen recordings using voice commands.
3. Lock Screen Wallpaper
iOS 16.5 features a new Pride Celebration wallpaper for the Lock Screen, honoring the LGBTQ+ community and culture.
Improvements and Bug Fixes
1. Apple News Improvements
The new release includes improvements to the Apple News app, such as score and schedule cards for My Sports, and stories, scores, standings, and more for the teams and leagues you follow.
2. Spotlight Fix
iOS 16.5 resolves an issue where Spotlight may become unresponsive.
3. Podcasts in CarPlay Fix
The update addresses an issue where Podcasts may not load content correctly when using CarPlay.
4. Screen Time Settings Fix
iOS 16.5 also fixes an issue where Screen Time settings may reset or fail to sync across all devices.
Security Fixes
iOS 16.5 includes over 40 security patches, addressing critical flaws that could allow hackers to steal personal data. Here are some of the most significant patches:
1. Cellular Flaw
A remote attacker might be able to execute arbitrary code on affected iPhone models over a cellular network via certain messages, Apple stated. CVE-2023-32419 – a buffer overflow – was resolved with improved bounds checking.
2. ImageIO Flaw
Processing an image with affected devices might lead to arbitrary code execution, as Apple describes it. CVE-2023-32384, a buffer overflow in ImageIO, was detailed and fixed with improved bounds checking.
3. Kernel Privilege Flaw
Through iOS 16.5, Apple corrected an issue in which a malicious application might execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges.
Conclusion
iOS 16.5 introduces several new and improved features and security fixes to the iPhone and iPad. With the release of iOS 17 in the fall, this update serves as a crucial stepping stone to better overall performance for Apple devices.
FAQs
1. How do I update to iOS 16.5?
To update to iOS 16.5, go to the Settings app on your iPhone, tap General, and select Software Update. The update should be available for download and installation.
2. How do I access the Sports tab in Apple News?
To access the Sports tab in Apple News, launch the app and look for the new tab at the bottom of the screen. You can now access stories, scores, standings, and more for your favorite teams and leagues.
3. What is the Siri screen recording feature?
The Siri screen recording feature allows you to start and stop screen recordings using voice commands.
4. Why are security patches essential in iOS updates?
Security patches address known vulnerabilities that could allow attackers to exploit system weaknesses and steal sensitive personal information.
5. When will iOS 17 be released?
iOS 17 is expected to be released in the fall, coinciding with Apple’s annual hardware event.
