Apple released a series of software updates for a range of devices, including macOS Ventura, iPadOS 16, iOS 16.1, tvOS 16.1 and watchOS 9.1.
The iOS, watchOS, tvOS and HomePod software updates are all bug fixes for the original x.0 versions released in September. In addition, each adds a minimum of one or two noticeable features.
The Apple TV update introduces a new Siri interface, the Apple HomePod update includes support for the Matter smart home protocol and the Apple Watch update can save substantial battery life on newer versions by lowering the frequency with which your watch checks heart rate and GPS data.
Noticeable changes
The iPadOS and macOS updates constitute the most noteworthy features. Both have the new Stage Manager multitasking interface and a slew of minor additions.
The iPadOS update is exclusively available for 5th Gen iPads or newer, 5th Gen iPad minis or newer, 3rd Gen iPad Airs or newer or any iPad Pro. Ventura will work on any Mac released in 2017 or later.
The tvOS update will work on any Apple TV model that supports tvOS, whereas the watchOS update requires a Series 4 or newer device. iOS 16.1 requires an iPhone 8, Plus, X or newer.
Minor additions
iOS 16.1 includes a new highlight feature for iPhones: Live Activities. The feature delivers live-updating content on Lock Screens and Dynamic Islands on iPhone 14 Pros. It’s been used by a handful of Apple’s native apps.
With these changes, iCloud Shared Photo Library is also available for the iPhone, iPad, and Mac, allowing you to share photo libraries across various family members with contributions from multiple users.
Apple Fitness+ is no longer exclusive to Apple Watch, allowing customers to access exercises on their iPhones without owning an Apple Watch.
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