Apple has released iOS 16.2 for all iOS 16-compatible iPhones, after months of beta testing. The update is packed full of new features and important security patches. Here’s everything you need to know.
Who Is It For?
Apple iOS 16.2 is available for all iOS 16-compatible devices, namely the iPhone 8/iPhone X and newer. iOS 16 dropped support for the iPhone 6S and 7 ranges and the iPod Touch.
Apple’s confirmation of auto-update delays, means eager updaters should trigger the update manually by navigating to Settings > General > Software Update. If you are running newer beta software (see ‘The Road Ahead’ section at the end), you must unenroll your device before the update appears.
Note: this guide is not focused on older iOS updates, iPadOS or macOS, but I will touch upon pertinent issues in these guides.
The Deal Breakers
The first 24 hours for iOS 16.2 are highly encouraging. Major software updates tend to introduce more bugs than minor ones under the age-old change more/break more adage. Still, it has been primarily smooth sailing based on user feedback across social media, Reddit and Apple’s Support Community forums.
I have noticed isolated reports of bugs with eSim, touch response and wallpaper, while Apple Music will seemingly never be glitch-free. But there is a sense of calm around the update, unlike anything I have seen since iOS 16 was released.
Needless to say, a lot can still change as an ever-greater number of users update, but the signs look good so far.
So What Do You Get?
iOS 16.2 contains multiple new features and fixes, with Apple’s release notes stating:
This update introduces Freeform, an app that offers a great place to brainstorm and bring your ideas to life. This release also adds Apple Music Sing, Advanced Data Protection for iCloud, Lock Screen improvements, and other features and bug fixes for your iPhone.
Freeform
Freeform is a new app for working creatively with friends or colleagues on Mac, iPad and iPhone
A flexible canvas lets you add files, images, stickies, and more
Drawing tools let you sketch anywhere on the canvas with your finger
Apple Music Sing
A new way to sing along with millions of your favorite songs in Apple Music
Fully adjustable vocals let you duet with the original artist, sing solo, or mix it up
Newly enhanced beat-by-beat lyrics make it even easier to follow along with the music
Advanced Data Protection for iCloud
New option expands the total number of iCloud data categories protected using end-to-end encryption to 23 — including iCloud Backup, Notes, and Photos — protecting your information even in the case of a data breach in the cloud
Lock Screen
New settings allow you to hide wallpaper or notifications when Always-On display is enabled on iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max
Sleep widget lets you view your most recent sleep data
Medications widget lets you view reminders and quickly access your schedule
Game Center
SharePlay support in Game Center for multiplayer games so you can play with the people you are on a FaceTime call with
Activity Widget allows you to see what your friends are playing and achieving in games right from your Home Screen
Apple TV
Live Activities for Apple TV app let you follow your favorite teams with live scores right on your Lock Screen or in Dynamic Island on iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max
Home
Improved reliability and efficiency of communication between your smart home accessories and Apple devices
This update also includes the following improvements and bug fixes:
Improved search in Messages allows you to find photos based on their content, like a dog, car, person, or text
Reload and Show IP Address setting enables iCloud Private Relay users to temporarily disable the service for a specific site in Safari
News articles in Weather display information relevant to the weather in that location
Participant Cursors in Notes allow you to see live indicators as others make updates in a shared note
AirDrop now automatically reverts to Contacts Only after 10 minutes to prevent unwanted requests to receive content
Crash Detection optimizations on iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro models
Fixes an issue that causes some notes not to sync with iCloud after updates are made
Bemusingly, Apple has excluded arguably the most important functionality of iOS 16.2: it finally brings 5G compatibility to iPhones in India. Addressing an issue that has impacted users for years.
Aside from this, Freeform is the headline news. Freeform is a digital canvas app which enables iPhone, iPad and Mac users to collaborate in real-time, contributing everything from scribbles and images to documents, URLs and more. It is compatible with the Apple Pencil on iPad and works with FaceTime. Freeform is intuitive yet powerful, and I believe it can be a game-changer for many users, whether used for business or brainstorming with friends and family.
Apple Freeform, introduced with iOS 16.2
Apple
Also noteworthy is Apple’s ‘Advanced Data Protection’ for iCloud, which provides end-to-end encryption, and iCloud Private Relay, which encrypts web traffic leaving your device, though it requires an iCloud+ subscription.
In terms of fixes, the new lock screen improvements were long awaited for iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max owners, while Crash Detection optimizations were critical after the emergency services feature made headlines for triggering on rollercoasters and ski slopes.
iOS 16.2 Security
Apple’s iOS 16.2 security page reveals that this monster update contains a head-turning 35 security patches, with nine delivering fixes for WebKit (the Safari browser engine) alone.
Accounts, graphics drivers, the iTunes Store, Apple Photos, printing and even the Weather app are other areas where iOS 16.2 clamps down on potential security exploits.
Apple iOS 16.2 Verdict: Upgrade
Apple iOS 16.2 is shaping up to be the most important release since iOS 16. It delivers a compelling combination of new functionality and privacy, critical security patches and stability.
If you are keen to get your hands on the latest features and fixes, this is the green light. For more cautious upgraders, I will deliver my final verdict in a week, so bookmark this page.
The Road Ahead
Expect Apple to announce the first iOS 16.3 beta imminently, while I would not be surprised to see iOS 16.2.1 launch relatively early in the new year. As stable as iOS 16.2 appears, there is always something to fix after major updates.
If you want to try Apple’s next updates before they are released to the wider public, you can join the Apple Beta Software Program. But remember that — by definition — you can expect a bumpy ride.
CHICAGO (AP) — United Airlines has struck a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to offer satellite-based Starlink WiFi service on flights within the next several years.
The airline said Friday the service will be free to passengers.
United said it will begin testing the service early next year and begin offering it on some flights by later in 2025.
Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
The announcement comes as airlines rush to offer more amenities as a way to stand out when passengers pick a carrier for a trip. United’s goal is to make sitting on a plane pretty much like being on the ground when it comes to browsing the internet, streaming entertainment and playing games.
“Everything you can do on the ground, you’ll soon be able to do on board a United plane at 35,000 feet, just about anywhere in the world,” CEO Scott Kirby said in announcing the deal.
The airline says Starlink will allow passengers to get internet access even over oceans and polar regions where traditional cell or Wi-Fi signals may be weak or missing.
Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:
Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.
Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers
While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:
Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source
Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:
Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.
3. Sign Up for Notifications
Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.
Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.
4. Prepare for High Demand
Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:
Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.
Final Thoughts
The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.
For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.
Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.
Key Features of the PS5 Pro
The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:
Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.
Optimized Games & Patches
Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:
Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West
These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.
Design & Compatibility
Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.
Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.
Pricing & Availability
The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:
$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY
Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.
The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.
Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.
