Apple today seeded the fourth beta of the upcoming iOS 16 and iPadOS 16 updates to developers for testing purposes, with the updates three weeks after Apple released the third developer beta.
Registered developers can download iOS and iPadOS 16 profiles from the Apple Developer Center, and once installed, beta versions will be available over the air.
iOS 16 introduces a revamped lock screen that offers a new level of personalization and customization through widgets, a notification redesign, and adjustable fonts and colors for the era. Multiple lock screens, similar to watch faces, are supported and can be associated with focus modes.
Focus is easier to set up than before and more customizable, with Focus filters available to remove distracting content within apps. The Messages app now includes tools to edit an iMessage, unsend an iMessage, and mark messages as unread, plus it supports SharePlay, just like FaceTime.
The Mail app has improved search and tools including undo, schedule to send, and follow up so you can get a reminder to check an email if you haven’t received a reply. Safari supports shared tab groups, and Apple is working to replace passwords with passkeys, a more biometrically secure way to sign in to accounts.
iCloud Photo Library makes it easier for users to share photos with family members, and Live Text supports videos. There is a new feature to lift the theme from a background with a tap, which is part of Visual Lookup.
Dictation has improved, Maps now supports multi-stop routing, Apple Pay Later lets you split purchase payments, and the Home app has been completely overhauled with a new look. On iPad, the update adds a new Stage Manager feature for more Mac-like multitasking, but it’s limited to M1 iPads.
There are plenty of other new features in iOS 16 and iPadOS 16, with a full rundown of everything available in our dedicated roundup.