Apple just released a major update for iPhone’s operating system with iOS 14.5. Here are 5 reasons why you should be updating to it.
Unlock iPhone with Apple Watch
It has been impossible to use iPhone’s Face ID when you are outside, as you need to wear a face mask in this pandemic. This new feature is probably the most important reason to update to iOS 14.5, especially if you have an Apple Watch.
In iOS 14.5, you can use your Apple Watch to unlock the iPhone without the need of Face ID or passcode. This Apple Watch’s feature has been available to unlock Mac computers for a while. Now, it is finally on the iPhone.
In Settings on your iPhone, go to Face ID & Passcode. Here, under the section “Unlock With Apple Watch”, toggle the switch to turn it on.
Update your Apple Watch to watchOS 7.4. Once done, make sure the Apple Watch is unlocked and on your wrist as well as in close proximity to your iPhone. Once these requirements are met, your iPhone will automatically unlock when you look at it.
This new feature only works with iPhone X and later as well as Apple Watch Series 3 and later.
AirTag
In order for Apple’s item tracker AirTag to work, you need to upgrade to iOS 14.5.
That way, you can pair an AirTag (or more) with your iPhone, allowing you to track and find important items, such as keys, a wallet or a backpack, using the Find My app.
App Tracking Transparency
In iOS 14.5, the App Tracking Transparency feature requires each app to get your permission before tracking your data across apps or websites owned by other companies for advertising, or sharing their data with data brokers.
In other words, you can stop these firms from tracking you when you opted to do so. In Settings, you will be able to see which apps have requested permission to track so you can make changes to your choice at any time.
Siri
Siri no longer has a default female voice. You will be prompted to choose your preferred Siri voice during setup. Or you can change the voice you prefer later on.
There are now four voices to choose if you select American Voice in the Siri setting. Other English voices only have two options.
In addition, Siri can now announce incoming calls through AirPods or compatible Beats headphones. It also supports calling emergency contacts if you need assistance or unable to make a call.
Emoji
There are a ton of new emojis that come with iOS 14.5. For instance, the couple kissing emoji and couple with heart emoji can now reflect different skin tones.
In addition, there are others such as face exhaling, face with spiral eyes, face in clouds, heart on fire, mending heart, syringe without blood and AirPods Max headphone emoji.
