What does Apple iOS 16.4 update offer?

The much-anticipated Apple iOS 16.4 update, which has undergone almost six weeks of beta testing, is set to hit the market this week. This software update brings several new features and changes designed exclusively for iPhone 8 and newer models.

The installation process is quick and easy; users can install the update by opening the Settings app on their iPhone, tapping on General, followed by Software Update, and then following the on-screen instructions.

What’s new in the Apple iOS 16.4 update?

The update boasts eight significant changes and features, such as fresh and updated emoji designs, web-based push notifications, and other exciting modifications. We’ve recapped all the new features and changes you can expect from the Apple iOS 16.4 update below.

New emojis

With the release of Apple iOS 16.4 update, users will get their hands on new emoji designs introduced through Unicode 15.0, featuring a range of emoticons such as a shaking face, heart in three new color options, donkey, moose, jellyfish, and more. We’ve previously shared a sneak peek of all the exciting new emojis that users can expect with the update.

Web push notifications

The Apple iOS 16.4 update also includes opt-in support for web-based push notifications, allowing users to receive notifications from websites through Safari on their iPhone. Similar to notifications sent from App Store apps, users can receive alerts from web-based applications. However, only websites that have been saved as a web app on the Home Screen can request to send push notifications, ensuring a secure and personalized user experience.

Beta menu

The latest Apple iOS 16.4 update brings a new “Beta Updates” menu in the Settings app under General → Software Update. This feature simplifies the beta installation process by allowing members of Apple’s Developer Program to access developer betas of iOS without installing a configuration profile from the Apple Developer website. This menu also provides a convenient way to enable public betas of iOS.

Users will only be able to access the developer beta option on their iPhone if the device is logged in with the same Apple ID used for enrollment in the Developer Program. According to Apple, this menu will become the only way to enable developer betas in future iOS releases, preventing configuration profiles from being shared online for free.

Podcast updates

The Apple iOS 16.4 update brings several enhancements to the Podcasts app for both iPhone and CarPlay. The new “Channels” menu within the app allows users to access a comprehensive list of podcast channels in one convenient place on their iPhone. Additionally, the “Up Next” queue has been improved to include episodes that users have saved to their Library, as well as episodes played from shows they don’t follow.

For CarPlay, users can now access the “Up Next” and “Recently Played” queues from the “Listen Now” tab, while the “Browse” tab offers podcast recommendations. These updates make it easier than ever to manage and enjoy podcasts on the go.

New Home app design

The Apple iOS 16.4 update reintroduces the revamped Home app architecture, which was initially launched with iOS 16.2 but was temporarily pulled due to bugs. After updating to iOS 16.4, users will have access to an optional update in the Home app with the new underlying architecture. According to Apple, the updated architecture enhances the app’s performance, efficiency, and reliability for controlling smart home accessories.

This new architecture follows the Home app gaining support for Matter accessories in iOS 16.1, making it easier for users to manage and control their smart home devices. With the latest updates, Apple has taken a significant step towards improving the overall experience of using the Home app.

Voice Isolation

The Apple iOS 16.4 update now includes Voice Isolation for phone calls made over a cellular network. This feature blocks out ambient noise in the background, making the user’s voice sound clearer and more audible on the call. Voice Isolation was already available for Wi-Fi calls on apps like FaceTime and WhatsApp, but this update extends the feature to cellular calls as well. With Voice Isolation, users can enjoy crystal-clear audio quality during phone calls, even in noisy environments.

Duplicates detection in iCloud

With the latest Apple iOS 16.4 update, the Photos app now has the ability to detect duplicate photos and videos in an iCloud Shared Photo Library. This new feature can help users save space and clean up their library by merging duplicate photos and videos. With just a few taps, users can easily eliminate redundant images and streamline their photo and video collections. This update is a welcome addition for those looking to manage their iCloud Shared Photo Libraries more efficiently.

Crash detection

The Apple iOS 16.4 update brings additional crash detection optimizations exclusively for iPhone 14 models. Apple has been working to enhance this feature after emergency dispatchers in several U.S. states and Canada reported an influx of false 911 calls from skiers and snowboarders during the winter season. These new optimizations aim to reduce the occurrence of false 911 calls and improve the accuracy and reliability of Crash Detection on iPhone 14 models. With these improvements, users can feel safer while using their devices, especially during outdoor activities.