Even before the iPhone 12: iOS 14 is ready

Apple releases iOS 14. This benefits many users, because the new operating system also runs on older iPhones. ntv.de explains the most important innovations.

The new iPhone 12 series didn't make it onto the virtual stage, but Apple still released the iOS 14 update after its September event. Many devices receive the update, because iOS 14 is available for all iPhones that run iOS 13. They also include the five-year-old iPhone 6s duo and the almost equally old first generation iPhone SE. Here are the most important innovations:

Home screen widgets and app library

There are two big changes in appearance. On the one hand, you can now add widgets anywhere on the home screen. They'll also come in a variety of sizes after the update, and there are smart stacks. That means you can scroll through widgets of the most used apps or they change automatically at what is likely to be the correct time of day.

On the other hand, the apps have a clear media library. You can reach them by swiping the homescreen to the left until the end. The applications are sorted by categories, with the most recently added and frequently used apps (suggestions) at the top. In the settings you can determine that new apps only appear in the media library and are not automatically placed on the home screen.

When a call comes in, the phone or Facetime app is now content with the upper third of the display. This also applies to applications from other providers.

Memojis with mask

Facetime conversations can also be continued minimized as picture in picture while using another app. This is useful, for example, when identifying a meeting point on maps. The picture-in-picture function is also available for videos.

Anyone who communicates with other Apple users can look forward to new messaging features. With iOS 14, it is possible to pin up to nine conversations in the conversation lists. Group chats can now be spiced up with photos and memoji.

To address a person in the group directly, write their name and they will be highlighted in their chat. You can also adapt groups so that you only receive messages if you are addressed directly. And of course there are new stickers and memoji – including mouth and nose protection.

New translator app

Apple is continuously working on maps to lure users away from Google Maps. That works, but unfortunately only in a few countries outside of the USA for the time being. For example, Apple is introducing special directions for cyclists with iOS 14, but this does not yet work in Germany. The same is to be feared with the new routes for e-cars. For the time being, travel guides are only available for a few selected cities in the USA and for London.

In contrast, the new translator app works really well in different languages. If you turn it into landscape format, you can have conversations almost in real time via the microphone. The translations are very accurate, at least in the common languages. Great: The function is also available offline.

Siri still can't really keep up with the Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa, but the digital assistant has increased its knowledge and now presents itself in a more compact look. The new option of having Siri send audio messages is practical.

my home is my castle

Apple could not have suspected that the home would be so important this year, but in keeping with the "Corona cosiness", iOS 14 also comes with numerous improvements for the home app. Among other things, automations are proposed for new Homekit accessories, lighting can adjust the color temperature throughout the day and the overview prioritizes accessories that "need your attention most". Security cameras can now recognize faces marked in the photo app and you can define areas on which the camera should focus.

Safari is not only intended to be "the fastest mobile browser in the world", but also to become more useful. It now warns of insecure passwords and can view a detailed data protection report of websites. At some point he will also be able to translate websites in Germany, but initially only in the USA and Canada.

With iOS 14, the iPhone can serve as a car key that can be stored in your wallet, but can also be shared. All you need is a compatible vehicle, BMW owners have right of way.

App clips are a type of mini-app that can be used without having to install an application. They seem particularly handy when it comes to making a quick purchase – which you can then of course pay with Apple Pay.

Improved data protection, own standard apps

With iOS 14, Apple is further improving the data protection of its users, with which the company also wants to set itself apart from its major competitor Google. Among other things, a small dot in the top right of the display now shows whether an app is using the camera. For a short time this application will then also be displayed at the top of the control center. Very good: If not absolutely necessary, you can specify in the settings that an app is not allowed to use the exact location. You don't need it for weather forecasts or the correct time zone, for example.

Finally, there are numerous smaller changes, one of which is one of the big innovations: After the update, it will finally be possible to set your own e-mail and browser apps as standard throughout the system. In order not to jeopardize security, developers must first have their applications checked by Apple before they can replace Mail or Safari. Among other things, Apple restricts access to private data.

To change the default browser, go to the settings for the app that should replace Safari. There you will now find the entry Standard Browser App, where you simply tick the box behind the desired application. Changing the standard email app also works.