iOS 16: Apple's new software update comes with a dash of Android

Apple’s Worldwide Developer Conference is fundamentally an event for developers. The headline act, however, is the software upgrades that Apple unveils each year. This year, iOS 16 has been the biggest talking point as it gives a glimpse into the new features in store for iPhone users. We look at some key ones.

iMessage: Edit, Undo And More
Though not as popular as WhatsApp, iMessage is a cool tool to communicate between iPhone users. Apple is now adding the ability to edit a message. So, if you’ve made a typo or autocorrect is acting up, then you can edit a message and send it. There’s also an undo feature coming with iOS 16, which will allow iPhone users to recall a message. SharePlay is also coming to Messages, giving users the ability to share synced content like movies or songs while chatting in Messages.

Better Parental Controls
If a child or teen asks for more screen time, parents will have the option to approve or decline it in iMessage. iOS 16 will make it easier for parents to set up new devices for kids with parental controls in place. Parents will have the ability to see suggestions for age appropriate curbs. Parents also get a choice to set parental controls before a child can use the device.


A ‘Touch ‘Of Android
Apple has so far been rigid in terms of the customisation options. With iOS 14, we saw Apple giving users more options. iOS 16 will make it slightly Android-ish, meaning users can change the style and personalise their lock screens. Users can choose a lock screen in accordance with the Focus mode, a rather cool feature.

Farewell To Some Passwords
Passkeys, Apple’s replacement for password audit, will be more secure, easy to use, and designed to replace passwords. A passkey will be a unique digital key that stays on the device and is never stored on a web server. Hackers will not be able to leak them or trick users into sharing them. Passkeys will make it simple to sign-in securely, using Touch ID or Face ID for biometric verification.

Door Detection: For Visually Impaired And Blind
There’s a Magnifier app in the iPhone which does what the name suggests. However, iOS will add a Door Detection feature to it. This is meant for users who are blind or suffer from low vision. Door Detection will help users locate a door upon arriving at a new destination, understand how far they are from it, and describe door attributes.