Best features of Apple iOS 14.5 update

Apple released iOS 14.5, its big new software update for iPhones, with a lot of new features, including the ability to unlock iPhone with Apple Watch while wearing a face mask, more diverse Siri voices, new privacy controls, skin tone options to better represent couples in emoji, and much more

Unlock iPhone with Apple Watch

You can now unlock your iPhone with your Apple Watch if you are wearing a mask. A new 'Unlock with Apple Watch' option has been added in phone's settings, which should cause your iPhone to unlock automatically if you are wearing a mask and also your Apple Watch. This feature requires you to have also updated to watchOS 7.4

Siri Enhancements

Siri has also received an update with more voice option. There are now 14 different voices from different regions and genders. Siri can now also announce incoming calls and caller name and if you're wearing AirPods or compatible Beats headphones you can also answer hands-free. You can now also call your emergency contact using Siri.

App Tracking Transparency

With the App Tracking Transparency users get the opportunity to give their permission before apps track their data across apps or websites owned by other companies for advertising, or sharing their data with data brokers. Apps can prompt users for permission, and in Settings, users will be able to see which apps have requested permission to track so they can make changes to their choice at any time.

New Emoji

New emoji are available for the couple kissing emoji and couple with heart emoji with the ability to select different skin tones. Additional emoji include characters for face exhaling, face with spiral eyes, face in clouds, hearts on fire, mending heart, and woman with a beard, among others.

Additional iOS 14.5 Features

Apple Podcasts: With redesigned show pages will make it easier to start listening, as well as an option to save and download episodes so they are automatically added to Library for quick access. Top Charts, categories, and curated collections on the Search tab help listeners discover new shows.

AirTag: Users can keep track of and find important items, such as keys, a wallet, backpack, or more, privately and securely in the Find My app.

Apple News: features a redesigned News+ tab, making it easier for subscribers to quickly find, download, and manage magazine and newspaper issues, and an all-new Search experience helps all Apple News users find relevant topics, channels, and stories.

5G improvements for iPhone 12 models include Dual SIM support for 5G connectivity and Smart Data Mode enhancements to further optimize the experience on the network, including better battery life and data usage.