iOS/iPadOS beta program participants should ensure they have the latest iOS 16.6 and iPadOS 16.6 beta installed. For regular users waiting for a stable update, it is important to note that Apple is getting closer to the release of the stable version with the release of the fourth developer beta. Fourth beta versions become available two weeks after the release of the third beta version. As always, these releases intended for testing, to fix any bugs and ensure a stable release in the near future.
iOS 16.6 and iPadOS 16.6 – Beta 4 available
Registered developers can sign up for the beta by going to Settings. After that, go to the “Software Update” menu. Click on the “Beta Update” option for iOS 16 Developer Beta. Keep in mind that you'll need the Apple ID associated with your developer account. It is required to download and install the beta version.
iOS 16.6 and iPadOS 16.6 are the starting point for verifying iMessage contact keys. This feature will allow iOS/iPadOS owners to ensure that they are communicating with the people they intend to send messages to, and not with an attacker who intercepted the message. The feature aims to improve the experience of users facing "extreme digital threats". In addition, the Cupertino-based brand plans that the new feature will be able to be used by journalists, government officials and individuals facing potential threats.
The brand plans to roll out iMessage contact key verification to iPhone and other devices in 2023. This is one of the last major features we'll see in iOS 16. After all, the brand has started its journey to iOS 17, and we should see a full release by September. iOS 17 is available in closed beta, and Apple promises an open beta for July 2023.
Apple has not yet announced the official release date of iOS 16.6. However, this shouldn't take long as beta testing is moving forward. The update will also bring more Beats Studio headphone icons. The new color icons are for the ivory Beats Studio Buds and clear Beats headphones (in case you missed it, Apple owns Beats). Beta 2 also adds a new prompt when trying to sign in to iCloud for Windows when your iPhone and Windows computer aren't on the same Wi-Fi network. The new prompt advises you to use a different network and that your iPhone and Windows computer must be on the same network.
Keep in mind that these features are still under development, and Apple may change some of them or not include them in the final update. Currently, users of the stable branch can enjoy iOS 16.5 and all the added features.
