What's New in iOS 14? Overview of the Main Innovations.
The latest iOS version, 14.4.1, was released on March 8. Apple did not specify what changes the developers made in it, but revealed many interesting features of the next update - iOS 14.5, which is now in beta testing. The first beta version of iOS 14.5 and iPadOS 14.5 became available on February 1 (for developers only). These versions include many new features and improvements for iPhone and iPad users. The innovations will affect both user privacy and the system interface. So let's discuss what the new OS will be like.
New features in iOS 14.5
iOS 14.5 seems to be one of the largest OS updates from Apple since the release of iOS 14 last fall. The update includes many innovations, which are truly difficult to overestimate:
- Sensitive user data cleaning, including search queries to Google;
- System that prevents developers from tracking users without their permission;
- Prohibition of tracking clicks, cursor movements and other manipulations;
- iPhone unlocking with Apple Watch, if a user is wearing a mask and can’t use Face ID;
- The ability to use alternative music apps, for example, Spotify, instead of the standard one;
- Unblocking of the picture-in-picture feature on the YouTube web version;
- Assessment of credit card applicants' solvency in the Wallet app (US only);
- 5G support on iPhone 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max and 12 mini, on both SIM cards at once;
- Stream workouts from Apple Fitness+ to compatible devices such as Smart TVs via AirPlay 2.
- Support of joint budgeting at Apple Card Family bank account;
Updates in iOS 14.5 beta 1
Here are the design innovations that will be available to everyone. For example, the new Watch app design in Settings menu, where you can check for the new software versions.
The Podcasts app has undergone several small user interface changes.
New interfaces for typing and sending messages with Siri.
New “Hey Siri” feature - “Call Emergency”.
The Reminders app now supports sorting by title, priority, creation date, and more.
The Apple News app also saw considerable changes in design, including a remade News+ tab and a new search menu at the bottom.
IPadOS 14.5 for the first time introduced a horizontal loading screen.
Updates in iOS 14.5 Beta 2
Apple has fixed system defects that made some iPhones’ screens, mainly iPhone 11, to temporarily turn green. The settings section with the software update was returned to its previous state.
The Music app received new gestures for adding songs to the play queue, as well as new pop-up menus for other controls.
What's New in iPadOS 14.5
IPadOS 14.5, iPad (8th generation) iPad Air, iPad Pro 11-inch, and iPad Pro 12.9-inch now disable the built-in microphone when the Smart Folio is closed.
There are new shortcuts to turn the orientation lock on and off, change modes and take screenshots.
While the operating system is in beta status, some minor bugs and flaws are inevitable, as well as lower battery life. Nevertheless, as we have already tested iOS 14.5 beta 2, we can say that the update is stable, and we haven’t noticed any critical problems.
The release version of the iOS 14 update can be expected by the beginning of April.