We’re a couple of months out of Apple to officially release the next major versions of their different operating systems. However, you can try iOS 16, iPadOS 16, watchOS 9, macOS Ventura and tvOS 16 right now. Apple has released a public beta, a few weeks after offering the first betas for developers. To access it, you must register with the Apple Beta Software Program and follow the instructions.
Please note that there may be some errors that Apple has not detected and resolved. Be sure to back up your data before installing any beta versions (although backing up regularly is always a good practice). You will have the option to remove your device from the public beta program and return it to an earlier version of its operating system.
You can get acquainted with some of the new features of iOS 16. These include a revamped lock screen with more design and customization options, such as dynamic wallpapers. Notifications and focus have also been revamped, while you can stay up to date on things like sports scores and public transport travel with Live Activities. Face ID will eventually work in landscape orientation and you will no longer need an Apple Watch to use the Fitness app.
apple
Also new are the option to edit letters after sending them to Messages, a way to report spam messages, a Pay Later in Wallet feature, and an in-app email scheduling option Mail. There’s also a lot more on the way, including updates for Apple Maps, CarPlay, and Family Sharing. An “extreme” security option will also be available for high-profile users.
As for the iPadOS 16, enhanced multitasking options will give you more control over resizing apps with, for example, overlay windows. However, some of the features are limited to M1-powered iPads. Elsewhere, there is support for external displays, Google Drive-style document collaboration, and (later this year) SharePlay features in the Game Center.
Apple has also made multitasking a key focus for macOS Ventura. The Stage Manager tool can group windows next to the screen and organize them by application. There will be an option to undo sending to the Mail app, along with the option to share tab groups in Safari and a new security feature called passwords, which will use Face ID and Touch ID for authentication . You can also use an iPhone as a webcam for your Mac.
In watchOS 9, Apple offers a significant improvement in fitness features. You will have access to distance and time intervals for workouts. There will also be a way to see what heart rate zones you are in during workouts and sleep. In addition, Apple promises improved sleep monitoring as well as medication reminders.
When it comes to tvOS 16, the upgrades are lightweight compared to some of the other devices. A key update is the addition of full support for the Matter smart home standard. As seems to be the case in iOS 16, tvOS will support Nintendo’s Joy-Con and Switch Pro controllers.
Apple is ending support for some older devices with this year’s operating system updates. To use iOS 16, for example, you’ll need an iPhone 8 or later.
Update 7/11 14:32 ET: The subtitle and lock mode details have been adjusted for clarity.
All products recommended by Engadget are selected by our editorial team, regardless of our parent company. Some of our stories include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, we may earn you an affiliate commission.