Saturday, January 21, 2023

iOS 16.3 Update

iOS 16.3 Update

Apple released its most significant update of iOS 16.2 on December 13. Later on December 14, its developer beta (16.3) was released. iOS 16.3 update is the new update that enables you to use physical security keys using your Apple ID. In addition, it makes Advanced Data Protection available worldwide. Besides, the update makes your device compatible with the new 2nd-generation HomePod. It also gives you a few security enhancements and bug fixes.

People can enjoy the End-to-end encryption feature for several other iCloud data categories such as Photos, Voice Memos, Notes, device backups, messages backups, etc. Moreover, iOS 16.3 is compatible with the new second-gen Homepad, Apple ID security keys, and the unity wallpaper.

According to the press release by the company, people will get the Apple watch band and Apple software update very soon. Previously iCloud advanced data protection was accessible only to U.S. Apple users. It features new Apple ID and iCloud security keys, which can provide an additional safety layer to users' data.

As per a media report, the company could launch other updates like iPadOS, watchOS 9.3, macOS 13.2, and tvOS 16.3. However, it is expected that the new update will include a display bug on iPhone 14 Pro Max.

What is the iOS 16.3 release date?

On December 14, the first beta was released. But it was January 18 when the release candidate went out to beta testers. However, it is expected that a wide release will be done on January 24 or 25.

iOS 16.3 New features:

You can get bug fixes & security updates in each iOS release. But these features are the most significant ones that are included in this iOS 16.3.

Advanced-Data Protection: While it is released for only U.S. users, it is said that people worldwide can use this feature in iOS 16.3. However, there is no mention in the release notes regarding this.

Physical security keys for Apple ID:

FIDO-certified physical key lets you secure your Apple ID. You can use these security keys for many reasons. Moreover, this technology is helpful in improving iPhone security. However, in iOS 16.3, these replace the passcodes sent to the iPhone when you log in to another device.

These keys are hardware-based tokens used for two-factor authentication. It is security's "gold standard" that contains a password and at least other factors like hardware key or biometric — Face ID or Touch ID. Apple is a member of the FIDO Alliance, whose aim is to have two-factor authentication with these keys.

Support for HomePod (2nd gen):

This new update makes your device compatible with the 2nd-generation HomePod. If you are a beta tester with an Apple HomePod, you can see new messages when you share music, podcasts, or phone calls over to the speaker using Handoff. You get to know about the working process of HomePod from the messages.

A message will say you to bring the iPhone closer to your HomePod to share audio over HomePod or to see the controls. On the other hand, another message will instruct that it is possible for you to bring your iPhone closer to your HomePod again later to share music or see the same controls.

Black Unity collection: The company comes with a new Apple Watch face celebrating Black History Month (February).

Apple Maps to find nearby parking options:

Apple Maps can help you in finding nearby parking options to get directions to a spot. If you want to go somewhere, click on More (...) and Parking thereafter. Thus, you can see a SpotHero which is an online service used to find, book, and pay for a parking area at any nearby garage. It is possible to reserve a spot via SpotHero. But people of some selected towns can only access the feature.

New ways to use Emergency SOS via satellite:

Apple introduced this feature at its 2022 event in September. With the help of the new beta software, you can use the service in new ways on iPhone. The Call with Hold and Release has replaced the Call with Hold option in iOS 16.3 beta 2. Enabling Call with Hold and Release allows the users to hold the side button and a volume button so that you can initiate a countdown and an alarm. Release the button after completion of the countdown. Then, the iPhone will call emergency services automatically.

Before Call with Hold, if you hit the side and volume buttons, you can bring up the Emergency SOS call slider first. Holding buttons continuously can start the countdown, and an alarm would go off. Once your phone completes the countdown, an emergency call will be made by your mobile.

Call Quietly in Emergency SOS is an option, enabling which prevents your phone from flashing or making any alarm sound when you make any emergency SOS call.

How to install the public iOS 16.3 Beta:

You can make this available within a day or a day after the Developer Beta's release. Hence, you should know that Developer Beta is especially for registered developers due to which you can't participate. However, the company makes the Public Beta. Therefore, users must try it. Several users wait to test out iOS 16.3 and its features. In such cases, you should ensure that you are enrolling in the Public Beta by going through these steps.

  • If you want to include yourself in the program, sign up on the Apple Beta page. After that, you should register yourself with Apple ID on the iPhone. 
  • Now, your job is to log in to the Beta Software Program. 
  • Tap on Enroll on the device you use. Did you sign up already in the previous year? If yes, then uninstall the earlier Profile. Next, you should enroll again to try the Beta Program. 
  • Navigate to beta.apple.com/profile on the device you use. 
  • Next, your task is to download the Profile and install it. If you don't see the notification for the same, move to Settings, General, VPN, and device management. Now, you have to click on the iOS 16 Beta Profile. 
  • After that, you need to restart the device. Head toward Settings, General, and Software Update after that. You should download the Beta version and install it on your device.

How to install the iOS 16.3 Developer Beta:

In this case, you need to know that iOS 16.3' every stage of the development cycle first will be rolled out to the developers. After that, it will be rolled out to the tester. If you are a developer, run this iOS 16.3 version to test your apps against iOS's most updated version.

Check first if your device supports this. You must register as an Apple developer hence. So, to join the Apple Developer Program, you should pay $99 a year.

You can install the iOS 16.3 developer beta in the following steps:-

  • If you use the Safari browser on iPhone or iPad, your first job is to head toward developer.apple.com. Then, you need to log in with your Apple ID. 
  • Now, you should move to the Downloads section, which is available in the left-hand menu. After that, you need to scroll the page down to iOS 16 or iPadOS 16 beta and click on Install Profile. Then, you have to tap on Accept. 
  • After that, you have to open the Settings application. Tap on the Profile Downloaded option at the display top once you see it. But if it is not visible, head toward General, VPN, and Device Management. Then, you should click on the iOS 16 or iPadOS 16 beta profile. 
  • After that, you have to click on Install, which you can see on the top right side, so that you can install iOS or iPadOS 16 beta profile. 
  • Now, you need to go through the consent form of the developer and give your consent. Hence, you need to assume that you are okay with the terms. 
  • Now, you should restart the iPhone. 
  • Head toward Settings > General > Software Update. You can see the iOS or iPadOS 16 beta there. Thereafter, you should click on the Download option and Install. 
  • Now, you should wait until the iPhone completes downloading the update. You should click on Install when prompted.

If you perform these steps correctly, the iPhone should run the iOS 16 beta.

Risks and precautions:

All betas are test versions of upcoming software, meaning they will add more features in the finished product. So, fixing bugs and other issues will be required during the development procedure.

Conclusion:

According to Apple, the Unity 2023 watch face needs the Apple Watch Series 4 or later version in watch OS 9.3, iPhone 8 or later and iPhone SE or later. Users can enjoy the new Unity iPhone wallpaper in iPhone 8 or later in iOS 16.3. However, you should know that the previous version, iOS 16.2, was released on July 11 last year.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q. What are the new updates in iOS 16.3?

Security updates, support for new second-gen HomePod, Apple ID security keys, unity wallpaper are the new updates in iOS 16.3.

Q. How do you get iOS 16.3 Beta?

If you are willing to install iOS 16.3 developer beta 2 on your iPhone, you should do the following:

  • Your first task is to open the iPhone Settings and then go to General. 
  • Now, you need to choose Software Update. 
  • After that, you have to click on Download and Install. 
  • Now, you should put in the iPhone passcode.
  • Then, you should go through the on-screen instructions. 
  • As soon as you download the file, you need to click on the option: Install Now.

Q. Is iOS 16.3 out?

As per the report, the official version of iOS 16.3 will be released on January 24, 2023 probably.

Friday, January 20, 2023

Apple Unveils MacBook Pro with M2 Pro and M2 Max

MacBook Pro with M2 Pro and M2 Max

On 17th January 2023, Apple announced the new 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro with M2 Pro and M2 Max. If you are a pro user, you can get improved battery life and better power-efficient performance from the next-generation pro silicon of the company. The most efficient chip in the world is M2 Pro & M2 Max, used for a pro laptop and lets the model handle important tasks. While the device is faster by up to six times than the Intel-based MacBook Pro, and Color grading that is faster by up to two times.

The battery life of the MacBook Pro is up to 22 hours, and it is assumed to be the longest battery life in a Mac. The M2 Max model comes with up to 96 GB unified memory. 

Here, we are going to mention a few of its unrivaled features:

  • Liquid Retina XDR display, 
  • Great connectivity, 
  • 1080p FaceTime HD camera, 
  • six-speaker sound system and studio-quality mics.

The combination of these features with macOS Ventura offers a groundbreaking MacBook Pro user experience.

Performance with M2 Pro and M2 Max:

The model can transform pro workflows across art, science, and app development using M2 Pro and M2 Max. If your Mac model is Intel based and you want to upgrade this, you can experience an improved battery life, connectivity, performance, etc. The M2 Pro includes a 10- or 12-core CPU (up to 8 high-performance and 4 high-efficiency cores).

With M2 Pro on MacBook Pro—

Compared to the Intel-based MacBook Pro, animations in Motion & rendering titles are up to 80 % quicker, but against the old generation, the number is up to 20% faster. The speed of compiling in Xcode is up to 2.5 times more than the Intel-based MacBook Pro. Besides, its speed is around 25% more than the previous generation.

Additionally, the speed of Image processing in Adobe Photoshop is up to 80% faster compared to the Intel-based model, whereas around 40% faster compared to the previous generation.

For MacBook Pro with M2 Max, you can find a GPU with up to 38 cores used to push workflows to the extreme. Thus, it can provide up to 30% improved graphics performance over M1 Max. However, M2 Max comes with the next generation's 12-core (eight high-performance and four high-efficiency cores) CPU.

With M2 Max on MacBook Pro—

The rendering effect is up to six times faster in Cinema 4D than the fastest Intel-based MacBook Pro, whereas it is up to 30 % faster compared to the earlier generation. Besides, the Color grading in DaVinci Resolve is around two times faster than the quickest Intel-based MacBook Pro. In addition, compared to the old generation, it is up to 30% faster.

Enhanced Connectivity:

Wi-Fi 6E3 is a new feature that offers fast wireless connectivity in MacBook Pro. The model features more advanced HDMI making this compatible with 8K displays (up to 60Hz) and 4K displays (up to 240Hz). These are new abilities on versatile connectivity options such as three Thunderbolt 4 ports for high-speed connection to peripherals, an SDXC card slot, and MagSafe 3 charging.

macOS Ventura:

People can get improved performance & productivity with macOS Ventura. It includes a Continuity Camera which can bring video conferencing features such as Desk View, Center Stage, Studio Light, etc., to Mac. You can begin a FaceTime call using the Handoff in FaceTime feature on your iPhone or iPad and pass over this to Mac, or vice versa. Stage Manager tool can organize apps and windows. Therefore, while you can maintain your focus on your job, you can keep your eye on everything in one glance.

Mail and Messages are always a better option, whereas Safari is called the quickest browser on Mac worldwide. You can make another photo library and share it among family members ( up to six) using iCloud Shared Photo Library. In addition, the new Freeform app can offer a flexible canvas making it more productive.

Pricing and Availability:

  • People can order the new MacBook Pro models with M2 Pro and M2 Max from January 17 on apple.com/store. While it is also available in the Apple Store app, it is available in twenty-seven nations, including the United States. From January 24 onwards, these become available in Apple Store locations and Apple Authorized Resellers. 
  • These models will be available in countries like Australia, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Macau, New Zealand, and Singapore from February 3. 
  • The price of the 14-inch model will start at $1,999 (US), whereas the price for education is $1,849 (US). Besides, the starting price of the 16-inch model is $2,499 (US), whereas, for education, it is $2,299 (US). You can get configure-to-order options, extra technical specifications, and accessories at apple.com/mac. 
  • If you purchase a Mac from the company, you can get a free Online Personal Session with an Apple Specialist. You can also get to know how to make the new Mac work. 
  • Apple Trade In enables you to trade in your current computer and get credit toward a new Mac. You can go to apple.com/shop/trade-in to know your device's value
  • AppleCare+ for Mac can offer support technically to the experts. Also, the company can give extra hardware coverage like numerous accidental damage coverage, every subject to a fee. 

Conclusion:

The main target behind designing the MacBook Pro is to decrease the environmental impact. It is made of recycled materials like aluminum in the enclosure, rare earth elements in all magnets, tin and gold in many printed circuit board plates. It has 35% recycled plastic or more than that in its components. Additionally, it can meet the company's high standards for energy efficiency. You should know that the model does not contain any harmful substances. Apple aims to remove the use of plastic in its packaging by 2025.

We are glad to know that 97% of its packaging is fiber-based. The company is carbon-neutral for global corporate operations and plans to be 100% neutral by 2030 across the complete manufacturing supply chain which indicates that it will have net-zero climate effect on manufacturing, assembly, transport, customer use, charging, recycling, and material recovery.