Apple released the first beta version of the update (iOS 16.4) last Friday, which includes a bunch of new features including: new emojis, the ability to receive website notifications, a new in-app update for podcasts - the app as well as many more functions. The functions we will explain are as follows:
1- New emoji:
Apple added as many as 31 new emoji in the iOS 16.4 update, including new smileys, new animals like geese, and new heart colors like pink and light blue.
2- Safari browser notifications on iPhone:
Safari notifications feature was previously available on Mac computers as it allows the user to receive notifications from websites that they have added to their home screen. And now Apple has added this feature to iPhones and iPads with iOS 16.4 and iPadOS 16.4 updates.
Like Mac computers, iPhones and iPads prompt users to allow the web app to send notifications, which can be managed in the Notifications section of the Settings app.
Notifications from web apps work like notifications from other apps: They appear on the Lock screen, in Notification Center, and on the Apple Watch that's paired with your device.
3- Web notification focus mode support:
Users can include web application notifications on the home screen in focus mode so that they appear in the daily notification summary. Additionally, there are options to control where and how you receive web notifications.
4- Home screen web app badge:
Web applications added to the home screen can display icons to notify users of alerts and notifications, similar to normal application icons. The badge is displayed after the user has given permission to send notifications.
5- Mastodon link in the preview post:
iOS 16.4 beta allows Mastodon links to be previewed in Messages. That's good because new accounts rose 400% in December after users moved from Twitter to Mastodon, so you'll likely get a Mastodon link in your posts.
6- New changes to the trial version installation mechanism:
With iOS 16.4 and iPadOS 16.4 betas, users of the Apple Developer Program can run developer betas directly from the Software Update section of the Settings app.
This simplifies the beta download process by eliminating the need to install iOS beta developer profiles from the Apple Developer Center.
7- Update the HomeKit build:
iOS 16.4, iPadOS 16.4, and macOS Ventura 13.3 reintroduced the HomeKit version update that Apple pulled from iOS 16.2 due to several bugs.
In the Software Update section of the Home app, users will see the Home upgrade option available after updating the operating system to iOS 16.4. The new HomeKit architecture aims to improve the reliability and efficiency of communication between smart home accessories and Apple devices.
8- Update the Podcasts app:
Apple has made several updates to the Podcasts app. After updating the operating system, the channel can be accessed in the (Library) section, and the (Next) button is used to restore episodes, start recorded episodes, and delete skipped episodes. Additionally, there is an option to pick up where you left off when using Car Play.
9- Update the Apple Music app:
Apple has improved the interface of the app (Apple Music) in iOS 16.4 beta. When a song is added to the queue, a small banner appears at the bottom of the screen instead of a full screen popup.
Also, with the new update, a prominent button will be available to access your account in the Apple Music app, making it easier to access your profile settings (your account settings) in the app.
10. AppleCare coverage:
An updated Coverage interface appears in the Settings app, showing you warranty information for your iPhone and any Apple devices connected to your phone.
11- Description of the user manual:
The Tips app shows instructions for using your iPhone and other devices it can be used with, such as: Apple Watch, AirPods, and HomePod. In previous iOS versions, the Tips app only offered iPhone user guides.
13- Apple Card Savings Account:
Apple announced the feature last October and it will be available in the iOS 16.4 update. This is a feature that allows Apple Card holders to open a savings account with Apple. And get the latest information about your savings account, such as: account number, current balance, interest earned, funds available for withdrawal, and more.
Apple plans to release the stable iOS 16.4 update between March 20 and July 20, 2023.