Apple is making the first developer beta for iOS 15.4 available for download. So, shortly after the update to iOS 15.3, we see what innovations the next version of the iPhone OS will bring. While only security gaps will be closed in January, there will soon be very exciting innovations with Universal Control and improved Face ID.
- Apple provides the first developer beta for iOS 15.4 and reveals new features in a press release
- Highlights are Universal Control and an update for Face ID, which enables recognition despite a mask
- In addition to the iPhone, features are also relevant for iPad, MacBooks, iMacs and your Apple Watch
January 28, 2022 is a second mini Christmas for Apple users. Because while the update to iOS 15.3 is being installed on your iPhone, you can find out about exciting innovations in the next iOS version. As Apple revealed in the press release, the developer betas for iOS 15.4, iPadOS 15.4 and macOS Monterey 12.3 have been available for download since January 27th.
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Although it is possible to get the new beta versions onto your Apple devices in a few detours, it is not advisable. They have not yet been released for everyday use and may therefore contain errors and security gaps. In order to increase the anticipation, I will nevertheless introduce you to the two most important functions of the upcoming Apple operating systems.
Universal Control and Face ID with Mask
The first highlight is Universal Control, which makes the connection between iPads and MacBooks even more seamless. With WLAN, Bluetooth and Handoff activated, you simply place your two Apple devices next to each other. You can move the mouse pointer from the notebook screen to the iPad and back again without activating the iPad as a second screen using the sidecar. Apple already showed the function in a video, which you can see below.
According to Apple in the press release, developers can now try out the “first steps”. All you have to do is set the system settings for monitors so that Universal Control is used all the time. The big advantage is that you can’t just manage the screen content of your Mac as you can currently, but the apps and features of the iPad are retained.
In addition to Universal Control, Apple announces improvements to Face ID. In iOS 15.3 you still have to use your Apple Watch to unlock your iPhone when wearing a breathing mask. In the future, however, it should be possible to use face recognition as usual even when wearing a mask.
Are you looking forward to what’s new in the next version of iOS? Let me know in the comments!