iOS 16.1: 5 things about Apple’s latest iPhone update

Apple announced a new update to iOS 16 with minor bug fixes and a host of new elements for iPhone users. However, if you missed catching up on the official announcement, we have you covered with a low-down of the top five changes you should be looking out for.

iCloud shared photo library

Although initially delayed, Apple finally introduced the iCloud shared library for iOS 16.1 after fixing minor glitches. With this update, a total of six people can share one photo library, making it seamless to share your favourite media with family or friends.

Live activities

If you’re in awe of the Dynamic Island on the iPhone 14 Pro Max series, this update will make things even more fun. The iOS 16.1 update allows users to track live activity notifications, such as an approaching cab ride, game score or flight timings.

Wallet sharing

Apple users can now securely share their car, hotel room, house and other keys that are otherwise available on the Wallet app. What’s more, you can share these details with your loved ones using iMessage, WhatsApp, and other messaging apps.

Lock screen customisation

iOS 16 gave us a surprisingly interactive lock screen to customise and play as per our whims. The new update can take things up a notch by customising the lock screen and the home screen instead of just the lock screen. This process makes it easier for you to spice up the look of your iPhone without going through an additional set of steps.

Apple Fitness+ on iPhone without an Apple Watch

Fitness enthusiasts who don’t prefer a smartwatch can make the most of this update. If you’re an Apple Fitness + subscriber, you can use your iOS device during your workout without an Apple watch. However, it is crucial to note that you may or may not be able to track accurate metrics during your session.

Other updates available with the iOS 16.1

Apart from these features, Apple has rolled out Clean Energy Charging, which contributes to reducing carbon footprints. You also have the option of deleting the Wallet app if you don’t use Apple Pay or the application to make payments. In addition, you can also view your battery percentage on the notification bar itself, alongside several other design updates for your iPhone or iPad.

iOS 16.2, macOS Ventura 13.1, and watchOS 9.2

Lastly, Apple has also rolled out iOS 16.2, macOS Venture 13.1, and watchOS 9.2 beta versions for developers. The tech giant has introduced Freeform, a “powerful new collaboration application with a flexible canvas that gives users the ability to see, share, and collaborate all in one place without worrying about layouts and page sizes”. Freeform was presented at WWDC 2022, where the brand spoke about releasing it for users much later in the year.