Are you ready for some exciting updates? Brace yourself, because iOS 16.4, iPadOS 16.4, macOS Ventura 13.3, watchOS 9.4, and tvOS 16.4 are here! With these updates, you’ll have access to new features like web push notifications for web apps on iOS devices, Focus mode support, and the ability to add websites and web apps to your home screen using third-party browsers. Plus, there are improvements to Emergency SOS via Satellite, enhancements to Shortcuts, and even 5G support for our friends in Turkey. So mark your calendars because iOS 16.4, iPadOS 16.4, and macOS Ventura 13.3 will be released this spring!
New Features and Enhancements
New Unicode 15 emoji characters added
In the latest update, iOS 16.4, iPadOS 16.4, macOS Ventura 13.3, watchOS 9.4, and tvOS 16.4, Apple has introduced a collection of new emoji characters. With the inclusion of Unicode 15, users now have access to a wide range of diverse and expressive emoji to enhance their messaging and communication experiences. From smiling faces to animals, food, and various objects, the emoji library has been extended to provide even more options for users to express themselves effectively.
Web push notifications now available for web apps on iOS devices
One of the exciting new features introduced in this update is the availability of web push notifications for web applications on iOS devices. This enhancement allows users to receive notifications from their favorite websites even when they are not actively browsing them. Whether it’s updates on news articles, social media notifications, or reminders from productivity apps, web push notifications make it easier for users to stay informed and engaged with their favorite websites right from their iOS device’s home screen.
Focus mode support for web push notifications
To ensure a more personalized and distraction-free experience, Apple has also included focus mode support for web push notifications. With this feature, users have the option to specify certain times or scenarios in which they do not want to receive any notifications, allowing them to fully focus on their work or other important activities. By customizing their focus mode settings, users can optimize their productivity and reduce interruptions from web push notifications during critical tasks or designated time periods.
Home screen web apps can display badges for alerts and notifications
In a move to further improve the functionality of web apps on iOS devices, Apple has added support for badges on home screen web apps. This enhancement enables web apps to display badges, similar to native app icons, to indicate the presence of alerts or notifications. Whether it’s a new email, direct message, or an upcoming event reminder, these badges provide a visual cue for users, allowing them to quickly identify which web apps have pending notifications, all without needing to navigate to each app individually.
Third-party browsers can now add websites and web apps to the home screen
Apple has taken a step towards enhancing user choice and flexibility by allowing third-party browsers to add websites and web apps to the home screen. Previously, only Safari had this capability, limiting users to add shortcuts for their favorite websites or web apps on the home screen. With this update, users can now use their preferred third-party browsers to create shortcuts for websites or web apps, making it easier to access them directly from the home screen and further customizing their browsing experience.
Simplified beta installation process for developers
Recognizing the importance of developer feedback and collaboration, Apple has taken measures to streamline the beta installation process. This update introduces a simplified beta installation process, making it easier for developers to test their apps and provide feedback during the development cycle. By simplifying the installation steps and reducing potential barriers, developers can focus on creating and refining their apps, enabling them to deliver better experiences for iOS users.
HomeKit architecture upgrade reintroduced
With iOS 16.4, Apple has reintroduced an upgrade to the HomeKit architecture. This enhancement brings improvements to the overall stability and performance of HomeKit-enabled devices and accessories. Users can expect a more reliable and seamless experience when controlling their smart home devices, with faster response times and enhanced security features. The reintroduction of the HomeKit architecture upgrade underscores Apple’s commitment to continuously enhance the functionality and reliability of their smart home ecosystem.
Updates to the Podcasts app, Apple Music app, and AppleCare coverage
In this update, Apple has also made updates to some of its popular apps, including the Podcasts app, Apple Music app, and AppleCare coverage. These updates aim to improve the overall user experience, with enhancements in performance, usability, and feature sets. From easier navigation and discovery in the Podcasts app to refined recommendations and personalized playlists in Apple Music, users can enjoy a more seamless and enjoyable experience when using these apps. Additionally, AppleCare coverage has been updated to provide better support and assistance for Apple device owners, ensuring a smooth and reliable customer service experience.
Shortcuts enhancements
Shortcuts, the powerful automation tool introduced by Apple, has received enhancements in this update. Users can now create more complex and sophisticated shortcuts, allowing them to automate a wider range of tasks and workflows. With the ability to integrate different apps and actions, users can streamline their daily routines and save time and effort. Whether it’s automating common actions, creating custom workflows, or leveraging smart suggestions, Shortcuts empowers users to personalize their devices and make them work more efficiently for their specific needs.
Content previews for Mastodon in Messages
In this update, Apple has added content previews for Mastodon in the Messages app. Mastodon, a popular open-source social networking platform, can now display content previews directly within Messages, making it easier for users to view and interact with Mastodon posts and content. With content previews, users can get a glimpse of what’s being shared on Mastodon without needing to navigate to a separate app or web browser, fostering a more seamless and integrated messaging experience.
Specific Device and System Updates
iOS 16.4 Update
The iOS 16.4 update brings several important additions and improvements to the iPhone and iPod Touch devices. Firstly, Apple has enabled 5G support in Turkey, making it possible for users in Turkey to take advantage of the faster and more reliable 5G network connectivity. Additionally, there are improvements to the Emergency SOS via Satellite feature, enhancing the emergency response capabilities of iOS devices. Lastly, Apple Card owners can now enjoy a high-yield savings account, providing them with an opportunity to grow their money while using their Apple Card for everyday purchases.
iPadOS 16.4 Update
The iPadOS 16.4 update mirrors many of the enhancements and features introduced in the iOS 16.4 update. Just like on iPhones and iPod Touch devices, users in Turkey can now access 5G support on their iPads, bringing them faster and more reliable connectivity. The Emergency SOS via Satellite feature has also received improvements, further strengthening the safety and emergency response capabilities of iPad devices. Additionally, Apple Card owners can take advantage of the high-yield savings account, ensuring that they can make the most of their Apple Card benefits and potentially boost their savings.
macOS Ventura 13.3 Update
For Mac users, the macOS Ventura 13.3 update presents several notable improvements and features. Like in the iOS and iPadOS updates, 5G support has been enabled in Turkey, allowing Mac users to experience faster and more reliable internet connectivity. The Emergency SOS via Satellite feature has also been enhanced, ensuring that Mac users have an additional safety measure in case of emergencies. Moreover, Apple Card owners can now utilize the high-yield savings account, making their Apple Card experience even more beneficial and rewarding.
watchOS 9.4 Update
Apple has not forgotten about its wearable device, the Apple Watch, with the watchOS 9.4 update. Firstly, users in Turkey can now enjoy 5G support on their Apple Watch, enabling them to experience faster and more efficient connectivity. Additionally, there are notable improvements to the Emergency SOS via Satellite feature, providing users with enhanced safety and peace of mind. Lastly, Apple Card owners can take advantage of the high-yield savings account, allowing them to make the most of their Apple Card benefits while effortlessly growing their savings.
tvOS 16.4 Update
For Apple TV users, the tvOS 16.4 update brings some exciting enhancements and features. Just like in the other updates, users in Turkey can now access 5G support on their Apple TVs, ensuring a smoother and more seamless streaming experience. The Emergency SOS via Satellite feature has also been improved, making Apple TV users feel more secure and protected. Lastly, Apple Card owners can utilize the high-yield savings account, taking full advantage of their Apple Card benefits while maximizing their savings potential.
Release Schedule
The highly anticipated iOS 16.4, iPadOS 16.4, and macOS Ventura 13.3 updates are set to be released in the spring, between the dates of March 20 and June 20. With these updates, Apple users can look forward to an array of new features, enhancements, and improvements that will enhance their overall experience with their devices. Whether it’s the expanded emoji library, web push notifications, focus mode support, or any of the other enhancements mentioned, Apple continues to innovate and improve its products to meet the evolving needs of its users.
