Apple’s iOS 15.4 is still in beta, which means the operating system isn’t quite ready for a public debut. But since Apple rolled out the fourth version of iOS 15.4 developer beta last week, we may be getting closer to the release date of the new operating system. Among other features, it reportedly includes a neutral voice option for Siri and anti-tracking alerts for AirTags.
Other highlights of the iOS 15.4 beta include new emojis, updates to Face ID, and the arrival of the long-awaited Universal Control. iOS 15.4 will follow iOS 15.3.1, released earlier this month, to patch security holes in iPhones and iPads.
As the name suggests, iOS 15.4 is the fourth major update to iOS 15, which rolled out with the iPhone 13 in September. The updates, which started with iOS 15.1 in December, added more features to Apple’s iPhone operating system and updated existing ones.
As with every OS beta, we recommend downloading only on test devices, not your main iPhone. Beta builds are designed to test stability and bugs, which means they’re not as optimized as release builds – you may experience shorter battery life and app instability. Let’s take a look at what everyone is paying attention to!
When is the release date for iOS 15.4?
Apple hasn’t announced a release date for iOS 15.4, but we could see the update at Apple’s rumored March event. Also, look for “release candidates” for iOS 15.4 RC or beta – these are usually the last beta versions before a public release.
How to download iOS 15.4 beta?
You first need to enroll in Apple’s Beta Software Program. Once in the program, download the configuration file from Apple. You should then be able to find the latest beta version by going to Settings > General > Software update and selecting Download and Install. Again, due to the buggy nature of beta testing, we only recommend it for assistive and test devices.
What is Universal Control?
Universal Control lets you use other devices as a second screen, seamlessly moving content between them using just one device. The highly anticipated feature was originally announced as part of MacOS Monterey, but was delayed in the fall, with a new timeline pointing to “this spring.” Fortunately, Universal Control is finally here in the iOS 15.4 beta, which is expected to roll out with the Monterey OS 15.3 update.
Can I use Face ID with a mask?
Apple has finally updated its Face ID feature to work while wearing a mask. Because the feature uses a small part of your face to verify your identity, you’ll need a more accurate picture of the angle at which you’re holding your phone while using Face ID. It will even prompt you if your phone requires you to look more directly at the screen. The updated feature should work for users who wear glasses, but not for sunglasses.
What new emoji are coming?
If you’re the kind of person who prides itself on using creative and fun emojis, you’ll love iOS 15.4. There are over 37 new emojis in the update, including new options for pregnant women, hands forming a heart, salute and – our personal favorite – the biting lip emoji. The emoji, revealed last fall, also include a melting face, a face holding back tears, a bird’s nest, coral, a lotus flower, a low battery and kidney beans.
Another feature included in the update is the ability to use the camera to copy text from objects in the Notes or Reminders app. And, as spotted by ZDNet, the second update to the iOS 15.4 beta also fixes bugs related to recording Siri interactions.
>>>>>>>>iPhone battery