The latest update for Apple’s iOS, version 16.3, is now available for download on your iPhone. This update includes new features, bug fixes, and important security updates. Additionally, updates for other Apple software such as iPadOS, Safari, and previous versions of iOS were also released simultaneously. It’s been approximately one month since the release of iOS 16.2, so this new update is arriving promptly. Here are some of the new features you can expect to see on your iPhone with the iOS 16.3 update:

Compatibility with the second generation HomePod

Apple’s latest iOS software, version 16.3, will include support for the second-generation HomePod. The new HomePod is set to be released on February 3rd and will be priced at $299, £299, and AU$479. Interestingly, Apple announced the release of the new HomePod just four days prior to the availability of the latest iOS software.

Unity-themed wallpaper for Black History Month

As part of its commemoration of Black History Month, Apple has released an update to its iOS operating system that includes a new wallpaper for the iPhone. The wallpaper is part of the company’s Black Unity Collection, which also features a special-edition Apple Watch Black Unity Sport Loop, a mosaic watch face, and a variety of content on Apple TV, Fitness Plus, Music, Maps, Books, Podcasts, and the App Store.

Innovative methods for utilizing Emergency SOS via satellite

Apple introduced a new feature, Emergency SOS via satellite, at an event in September. With the latest iOS 16.3 update, the option to “Call with Hold” has been replaced with “Call with Hold and Release.” When this feature is enabled, users can initiate a countdown and alarm by holding down the side button and a volume button on their iPhone. Once the countdown is complete, the phone will automatically call emergency services. Previously, using the “Call with Hold” feature would bring up an Emergency SOS call slider, and if the buttons were held down further, a countdown and alarm would sound before the phone made an emergency call.

Additionally, there is an option to make an “Emergency SOS” call discreetly. When this option is enabled, the phone will not emit any flashing lights or loud alarms when an emergency call is initiated.

Introduction of security keys for Apple ID

Apple ID users now have the option to use third-party security keys in addition to traditional two-factor authentication for added security. Security keys work similarly to physical keys, providing an additional layer of protection against phishing scams and hacking attempts. These hardware security keys are considered extremely secure, as stated by Diya Jolly, the Chief Product Officer of Okta, an authentication service company. It is important to note that this feature is only compatible with security keys that have been certified by the FIDO Alliance.

iOS 16.3 brings several new features and updates including:

• The introduction of a Unity wallpaper to celebrate Black History Month and honor Black culture.
• The option to use security keys for Apple ID to strengthen account security by requiring a physical security key as part of the two-factor authentication process on new devices.
• Support for the second generation of HomePod devices.
• Changes to Emergency SOS calls, now requiring the user to hold and release the side button with the volume button to prevent accidental calls.
• Fixes for issues with Freeform, where some drawing strokes created with Apple Pencil or fingers may not appear on shared boards.
• Resolves an issue where the wallpaper may appear black on the Lock Screen.
• Fixes an issue where horizontal lines may temporarily appear while waking up iPhone 14 Pro Max.
• Addresses an error where the Home Lock Screen widget does not accurately display the status of the Home app.
• Resolves issues where Siri may not respond properly to music requests and requests made in CarPlay may not be understood correctly.