New Update Apple Releases iOS 16.3 With Security Keys for Apple ID, New HomePod Support, Bug Fixes and More

silversurfer

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Apple today released iOS 16.3, the third major update to the iOS 16 operating system that first came out in September. iOS 16.3 comes over a month after the launch of iOS 16.2, an update that added the Freeform app, Apple Music Sing, Advanced Data Protection, and more.

‌iOS 16‌‌.3 can be downloaded on eligible iPhones and iPads over-the-air by going to Settings > General > Software Update. It can take a few minutes for the updates to propagate to all users due to high demand. Apple has also released iOS 15.7.3 for iPhone users who have older devices, with the update offering security improvements.

Today's update introduces Security Keys for Apple ID, allowing for physical two-factor authentication that replaces the digital two-factor authentication used for ‌Apple ID‌ logins. There is a new Unity wallpaper, along with support for the second-generation HomePod.
This update includes the following enhancements and bug fixes:
  • New Unity wallpaper honors Black history and culture in celebration of Black History Month
  • Security Keys for Apple ID allow users to strengthen the security of their account by requiring a physical security key as part of the two factor authentication sign in process on new devices
  • Support for HomePod (2nd generation)
  • Emergency SOS calls now require holding the side button with the up or down volume button and then releasing in order to prevent inadvertent emergency calls
  • Fixes an issue in Freeform where some drawing strokes created with Apple Pencil or your finger may not appear on shared boards
  • Addresses an issue where the wallpaper may appear black on the Lock Screen
  • Fixes an issue where horizontal lines may temporarily appear while waking up iPhone 14 Pro Max
  • Fixes an issue where the Home Lock Screen widget does not accurately display Home app status
  • Addresses an issue where Siri may not respond properly to music requests
  • Resolves issues where Siri requests in CarPlay may not be understood correctly
 

silversurfer

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Just as reminder: With this update iOS 16.3 "Advanced Data Protection for iCloud" is available to even more countries, in my case it's ready for German users ;)

Advanced Data Protection for iCloud is an optional setting that offers our highest level of cloud data security. If you choose to enable Advanced Data Protection, your trusted devices retain sole access to the encryption keys for the majority of your iCloud data, thereby protecting it using end-to-end encryption. Additional data protected includes iCloud Backup, Photos, Notes, and more.
 

silversurfer

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What's required for Security Keys for Apple ID​

  • At least two FIDO® Certified* security keys that work with the Apple devices that you use on a regular basis.
  • iOS 16.3, iPadOS 16.3, or macOS Ventura 13.2, or later on all of the devices where you're signed in with your Apple ID.
  • Two-factor authentication set up for your Apple ID.
  • A modern web browser. If you can't use your security key to sign in on the web, update your browser to the latest version or try another browser.
  • To sign in to Apple Watch, Apple TV, or HomePod after you set up security keys, you need an iPhone or iPad with a software version that supports security keys.

What doesn't work with Security Keys for Apple ID​

  • You can't sign in to iCloud for Windows.
  • You can't sign in to older devices that can't be updated to a software version that supports security keys.
  • Child accounts and Managed Apple IDs aren't supported.
  • Apple Watches that are paired with a family member's iPhone aren't supported. To use security keys, first set up your watch with your own iPhone.

Choose the right security keys​

Security Keys for Apple ID works with any FIDO® Certified security key. Some good examples include:
  • YubiKey 5C NFC (works with most Mac and iPhone models)
  • YubiKey 5Ci (works with most Mac and iPhone models)
  • FEITAN ePass K9 NFC USB-A (works with older Mac models and most iPhone models)
If you choose a different security key, you should choose security keys that are FIDO® Certified, and have a connector that works with the Apple devices that you use on a regular basis.
For a complete list of certified keys from the FIDO Alliance, visit the FIDO® Certified Showcase.
 

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