Apple has released iOS 16.3 to give iPhone users support for the newly announced HomePod as well as a physical security key used for two-factor authentication.
According to AppleInsider , after a beta period that began on December 14th last year, iOS 16.3 is now available for download to iPhones. The new version doesn’t bring many major updates, instead just ensuring compatibility with the new HomePod and improved features.
Specifically, iOS 16.3 includes support for hardware security keys, such as those from Yubico that can be used for two-factor authentication for Apple IDs. This brings many benefits to famous users such as journalists, politicians, etc.
Advanced Data Protection is also rolling out globally now. In case users want to enable iCloud security outside the US, they will need to make sure that every device on their Apple ID is running iOS 16.3.
In particular, iOS 16.3 includes major update packages focused on the HomePod. Users can see the temperature and humidity sensors found in the HomePod mini and the new HomePod in the Home app.
To update iOS 16.3 for iPhone, users can open the Settings app > General > Software update, then tap Download and install iOS 16.3. If iPhone is set to auto-update, it will handle the download and installation of iOS 16.3 on behalf of the user. The operating system is compatible with iPhone 8 and later models.