Apple has released iOS 16.4 to the public with new emojis along with numerous updates to Shortcuts, Focus Filters, UI tweaks, and more.
According to AppleInsider , iOS 16.4 includes a series of small updates that affect the way users interact with their iPhones and also their smart homes. While there aren’t any standout features, emojis can be a reason for people to update
With iOS 16.4, Apple added some new actions to Shortcuts to help control device settings such as silence for unknown calls, lock screen, Always On screen, VPN setup, receive AirDrop, and more. These actions with Focus Mode can allow users to control multiple individual devices.
Apple also made changes to the way public user and developer beta software program participation options work. Users need an Apple ID associated with a developer account or a public beta account to use the beta.
Web app push notifications are now also available on iOS 16.4, meaning apps added to the home screen via Safari will be able to notify users through the native notification system. Meanwhile, the HomeKit architecture upgrade is back up and running after the initial launch failed in iOS 16.2, helping to improve device responsiveness on the smart home network.
Apple also improved the Mastodon link preview in iMessage. This simple feature allows users to view Mastodon links similar to how Twitter or YouTube links appear in iMessage.
Other updates coming to iOS 16.4 include changes to the Podcasts app, the return of the Apple Books page scroll animation, and the addition of 31 new emojis. Additionally, standalone 5G networks are now available to users of compatible cellular plans.
To install iOS 16.4 on a compatible iPhone, users can open the Settings app > General > Software Update > Update to iOS 16.4. If iPhone is set to automatic updates, it will handle the download and installation of iOS 16.4 on behalf of the user