iOS 16.3 and iPadOS 16.3 updates have started rolling out to eligible iPhone and iPad models. The iOS 16.3, iPadOS 16.3 stable updates come 4 months after the release of the first iOS 16 update by the Cupertino, California-based tech giant. Apple’s latest smartphones now support Advanced Data Protection, which adds support for end-to-end encryption on iCloud. The update also adds support for security keys, meaning Apple devices now support physical security keys for two-factor authentication. The update also brings other bug fixes, performance improvements, and introduces support for Apple HomePod (2nd generation) on supported iPhone models.
According to Apple changelog Announcing iOS 16.3 stable update, users on iPhone 8 and newer models can now enable Advanced Data Protection for their iCloud accounts, protecting data from apps like Messages, Photos, and Safari. Meanwhile, the latest iOS 16.3 and iPadOS 16.3 updates also introduce support for using physical security keys for two-factor authentication when logging in to a Apple ID, for extra security.
As part of the latest iOS 16.3, Apple also introduced support for the new HomePod (2nd Gen), which allows for easy pairing and music transfer between iPhone devices and the Apple HomePod (2nd generation).
Meanwhile, the emergency SOS call mechanism has also been updated to iOS 16.3, with the user now having to release the power and volume toggle buttons to trigger an emergency SOS call. The update also fixes an issue with the FreeForm app used to create strokes Apple Pencil or hand did not appear on shared boards.
The update also fixes bugs that caused lock screen blackouts and horizontal lines when waking up iPhone 14 pro maxthe home lock screen widget does not display the status of the home app correctly, and siri does not respond to music requests, the company says.
Apple also unveiled a new Unity wallpaper that the company had announced earlier as part of Black History Month celebrations in the US in February as part of the iOS 16.3 update.
