Apple has rolled out iOS 16.3 to eligible iPhones, bringing support for Apple ID Security Keys, the upcoming second-generation HomePod, and updates to Emergency SOS via Satellite. Each software update following a major upgrade is designed to provide bug fixes and small feature additions. That's exactly what iOS 16.3 does, bringing a slew of already-announced features and changes to the hands of users. Apple revealed the new second-generation HomePod on Jan. 18, and said iOS 16.3 would be required to use Handoff with the new HomePod. Similarly, it announced Security Keys for Apple ID alongside Advanced Data Protection for iCloud in December 2022.
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These features are just making their way to users now with the release of iOS 16.3, which was seeded to devices on Jan. 23. The update enables physical Security Keys as an additional layer of protection for a user's Apple ID account. Essentially, Security Keys are hardware devices that serve as an alternative two-factor authentication layer. Since the physical key is needed at the time of a sign-in attempt, it's a secure method of data protection. Apple requires Security Keys to be certified by the FIDO Alliance, a conglomerate that aims to help create a simple and secure digital environment.
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HomePod 2 Support & New Emergency SOS Features
Apple's update also brings a new Black Unity Collection wallpaper for iPhone as part of the company's Black History Month Celebration. In addition to the iPhone wallpaper, Apple has also released a special-edition Apple Watch Black Unity Sport Loop and a Unity Mosaic watch face. Each offering features red, green, and black — the three colors of the Pan-African flag.
iOS 16.3 is required to take full advantage of the second-generation HomePod, which is slated for release on Feb. 3. Some features will work without the update, but others — including Handoff — only work with iOS 16.3. Additionally, iOS 16.3 will be used to roll out a HomePod OS 16.3 update that will activate the temperature and humidity sensor in the HomePod mini.
Emergency SOS previously had a settings toggle titled 'Call With Hold' that would call emergency services after holding the side and volume buttons. After a brief period of time, the Emergency SOS alarm would play and initiate a countdown. At the end of the countdown, the iPhone would call emergency services. Now, that toggle is called 'Call With Hold And Release,' and when enabled, an iPhone will call emergency services when the buttons are released after the countdown. There's also a 'Call Quietly' option that can make use of Emergency SOS without the flashing lights or alarm sounds.
Apple also says that an issue causing horizontal lines on iPhone 14 Pro Max units has also been fixed with the iOS 16.3 update. To download and install the update, open the Settings app and navigate to the 'Software Update' tab. Under the iOS 16.3 release notes, tap 'Download & Install' to install the update on the iPhone.
