Apple today officially released the latest versions of its mobile operating systems, iOS 15.5 and iPadOS 15.5, both version 15.5. Additionally, Apple Watch users can use watchOS 8.6. The updates come shortly before the WWDC 2022 event in June, where the company is expected to show off iOS 16.
- iOS 15.5 is now available to the public
- The update focuses more on software fixes rather than UI design changes
- watchOS 8.6 adds Magic Tap gestures and ECG features
The iOS 15.5 update brings some notable changes, but is more focused on bug fixes and security upgrades. The update is available for iPhone 6s to iPhone 13, with download sizes ranging from 1GB to over 5GB, depending on your iPhone model.
New in iOS 15.5: Apple Cash, Communication Security, Podcasts
The biggest change in this update is to enable send and request options via the Apple Pay card in the Wallet or Cards app. Apple also replaced the Pay icon in Messages with the new Cash icon, unifying the branding across the system.
Speaking of messaging, Apple’s communications security features are now available in more countries, including Australia, New Zealand and Canada, in addition to the UK and US. This feature is a child protection that blocks nudity.
Apple goes a step further by giving users more options for storing episodes in podcasts and reporting on the Weather app. The former saves you storage space because it automatically downloads and limits the number of episodes saved on your device. On the other hand, the reporting feature in the main tab of the Weather app allows you to send detailed reports if the forecast is inaccurate.
In the future, more websites will support Passkey in Safari as Apple has enabled developer support. This feature will allow you to log in automatically using biometrics like Face or Touch ID without having to enter a password.
watchOS 8.6 adds Magic Tap
One of the gestures on the iPhone and iPad will also appear in the Apple Watch Series 7 and Watch Series 4. Magic Tap lets you control actions by tapping on the screen with two fingers. In addition, Watch users in more regions can also use the ECG function and automatic detection of arrhythmia (this is already the case in France).
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What do you think of the iOS 15.5 update?