Apple system: what are the new features of iOS 15.4?

With the release of iOS 15.4 beta, Apple is including upgrades to some existing features previously included. Users can also look forward some major new features to improve their experience with their iPhone, iPad and Mac.

The general public will have to wait until spring, but beta testers can have a go right now. Here’s a look at some of the new features that have been included in the beta version of iOS 15.4 for iPhone and iPad.

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Universal Control

A long-awaited new feature has finally been included with the release of iPadOS 15.4 beta. Universal Control will allow users to wirelessly control their iPad and Mac, or other Macs running macOS Monterey 12.3, with a single keyboard and mouse if the devices are signed into an iCloud account. Universal Control will be enabled by default once the devices are upgraded.

Face ID with a Mask

Facial recognition can be somewhat difficult when most of it is covered by a mask to avoid catching covid-19 while out and about. Apple iPhone users who have an Apple Watch can unlock their phone when Face ID doesn’t work, but with iOS 15.4 users won’t need an Apple Watch while wearing a mask. That is if they have an iPhone 12 or newer according to MacRumors.

A new feature with the update is Face ID with a Mask which users can use not only to unlock their phone but also authentication for payments and password/login. Additionally, there’s a new setting to scan your face with your glasses on. However, Apple advises that Face ID is “most accurate when it’s set up for full-face recognition only.”

Emojis

You can never have enough emojis to use when words just won’t express what you want to say. iOS 15.4 beta introduces a slew of new characters, several new faces and hand emojis, along with skin tone additions, as part of the Unicode Consortium’s Emoji 14 release.

DualSense adaptive triggers

Gamers and game developers for Apple iPhones and iPads will welcome the new adaptive trigger firmware features of the Sony’s PlayStation 5 DualSense controllers supported in the beta iOS 15.4.

Apple Card Widget

For those who want to track their finances the iOS 15.4 beta includes a new Apple Card widget that can be added to your home screen or Today view. It displays your current balance and spending activity.

Vaccination records in the EU

Those residing or travelling to the European Union will be able to add verifiable covid-19 vaccination information to Apple Wallet and Health app. The iOS 15.4 now supports the EU Digital COVID Certificate format.

Additional new features on iOS 15.4 beta