iOS 14.5 now available for your iPhone

iOS 14.5 is now available to download and install on supported iPhones. Apple has just released this software version that corresponds to the spring version, introducing numerous improvements, news, and changes. The highlight is unlocking the iPhone with a Face ID wearing a mask, the transparency of app tracking, and the choice of default music service.

Also, Apple has released iPadOS 14.5, macOS 11.3, and the final versions of tvOS 14.5 and watchOS 7.4. 

Since the pandemic began a little over a year ago, iPhones with Face ID have been at a disadvantage with models with Touch ID. By requiring the use of a mask in public spaces, the face unlock does not recognize the face of its owner. That is why Apple has proposed a solution, although it is not universal.

It is about unlocking with Apple Watch, which we can activate on the iPhone in Settings> Face ID and code> Unlock with Apple Watch. This way, when the iPhone detects a mask on our face, we can continue unlocking the iPhone without entering the code, as long as we have the Apple Watch. The watch must be unlocked and within 2 meters.

There are some additional security limitations. For example, when we restart the iPhone, we must enter the code. If the clock is too far away, the iPhone will also require a code next time. And if the iPhone is unlocked with the clock, a button will appear to lock it remotely if we wish.

Choose the default music service in iOS 14.5

One of the most anticipated improvements in iOS 14.5 is being able to choose the default music service. When we ask Siri to play some music and have several streaming services, the assistant will ask us if we want to choose a specific one. It will offer confirmation of access to your app data, after which it will always run it.

Transparency in app tracking

With iOS 14.5, users will control the tracking that some apps make to us throughout the web and other apps. From now on, those who want to use user data must ask the user for permission the first time they open the app. It is a new permission that gives transparency to the process and decision-making power to the user.

AirTag support and new Podcast subscriptions

iOS 14.5 also brings compatibility with the new AirTag, the location beacon that Apple has finally unveiled. With this update, the Search app integrates this device to locate the objects to which it is attached.

With this update, podcast creators can add episodes or pay channels.