New emoji have been added to iOS 16.4, which also includes numerous updates to Shortcuts, Focus Filters, and other features. Even though iOS 17 and WWDC 2023 are drawing nearer, iOS 16 is still being developed by Apple. A variety of minor updates in version 16.4 will change how a user interacts with their iPhone and possibly their smart home. The update for iOS 16.4 is now available to download to the iPhone after a beta period that began on April 16 began. Among the adjustments are support for Mastodon rich links in iMessage, new shortcuts, a new Focus Filter, UI tweaks, and more. Despite the fact that new emojis frequently drive updates, there are no new features that are significant enough to be considered the headliner.
Shortcuts and Focus
Apple has added several new Shortcuts actions for controlling device settings.
- * Silence Unknown Callers
- * 21 new emoji including animals, hand gestures, and objects are now available in emoji keyboard
- * Set Stage Manager
- * Set True Tone
- * Set Announce Notifications
- * Shut Down
- * Lock Screen
- * Set Always On Display
- * Intercom
- * Set VPN
- * Set AirDrop Receiving
- * Set Night Shift
If you want to download and install iOS 16.4 on your iPhone, go to Settings > General > Software Update, and the update should be there for you. (If not, you might just have to wait a few minutes — Apple’s updates sometimes take just a bit to roll out.)
With this release cycle, Apple is removing beta profiles from its products. The developer or public beta options will no longer require users to install a profile. Access will only be available to users with approved accounts. However, there is a way to authorize both without paying the $100 fee twice if a developer has an account for personal use and one for development.The abuse of the profile systems led to the abandonment of beta profiles. Finding free access to developer beta profiles and avoiding the $100 developer fee could be done if people knew where to look. Currently, iOS supports web app push notifications.
As a result, apps that are added to the Home Screen using Safari will be able to notify users using the built-in notification system. After an unreliable initial launch in iOS 16.2, the Homekit architecture upgrade is back. If all the bugs have been fixed, the upgrade will enhance device responsiveness across the smart home network. Mastodon link-rich iMessage previews have been added by Apple. Users can now view Mastodon links in iMessage in a manner akin to how Twitter or YouTube links are displayed. In addition, 31 new emoji have been added, along with changes to the Podcast app and the return of the Apple Books page curl animation. Additionally, users with compatible cell plans can now access the 5G Standalone network.
