New iOS 16.2 Features: A Roundup of All Important Features in the Latest Update

Apple rolled out iOS 16.2 on December 14, 2020, for all the iOS 16-supported iPhones. Here, I have compiled the noteworthy features to which you should pay attention.

• Freeform App
• Apple Music Sing
• iCloud Advanced Data Protection (US only; early 2023 for the rest of the world)
• Completely black Always-on Display on the iPhone 14 Pro
• The AirDrop “Everyone” option is limited to 10 minutes
• 5G support in India

Freeform App

Freeform has become a headliner for iOS 16.2. Freeform is a creative space where users can write down notes, draw sketches, add photos, and do many other things. Projects in the app can be shared with an iPad or Mac.

Here’s how to use the Freeform app on iPhone and iPad on iOS 16.2:

Apple Music Sing

Apple Music now has a new karaoke feature with Sing. Apple Music Sing provides real-time lyrics so that users can sing along with them. You can adjust vocals. There are over 50 playlists in this new feature.

Also check: Apple Music Not Showing on iOS 16 Lock Screen

Apple Music Sing supports the iPhone 11 and later iPhone models. Here’s how to use it:

iCloud Advanced Data Protection (US only; early 2023 for the rest of the world)

Apple introduced Advanced Data Protection, which adds end-to-end encryption for photos, iCloud, Messages, Reminders, and others. However, you have to opt for it because it is not the default setting.

Contacts, Calendar, and Mail are exceptions to this, as they are needed by the system.

Completely black Always-on Display on the iPhone 14 Pro

The iPhone 14 Pro’s Always-on Display is an incredible feature, but it was causing a battery drain issue on iOS 16. So, Apple brought an option to disable notifications and wallpaper when Always-on Display is enabled on iOS 16.2.

The AirDrop “Everyone” option is limited to 10 minutes

With the latest iOS 16.2 update, AirDrop will be set to “Contacts Only” by default. You can enable AirDrop for everyone for 10 minutes only, and then it will be back to “Contacts Only” after 10 minutes.

5G support in India

IOS 16.2 comes with 5G network support for Indian iPhone users. All 5G-compatible iPhones in the country can now connect to Jio 5G and Airtel 5G and enjoy fast internet speeds.

Also check: How to Hide Photos on iPhone/iOS 16