Today Apple released their big annual update across all of their mobile devices. There are a lot of exciting new features to explore. Feel free to dive into the update, though you should make sure that your device is backed up first in case you have a problem. Go to the Settings app > tap your name > iCloud > Backup.
Apple offers a huge list of new features in iOS 15, but here is my brief overview of some of the main new features. May of these features are also in watchOS 8 or iPadOS 15, where appropriate.
Focus extends the Do Not Disturb feature to allow different apps and people to send you notices depending on what type of focus you have selected, syncs across all of your Apple devices.
Notification Summary allows app you select to have their notifications delivered at set times throughout the day to reduce that constant stream of distractions.
Maps gets a huge upgrade for exploring select cities in 3D, beginning with San Francisco, LA, New York, London, and more cities coming soon such as Washington DC.
Weather gets map views and precipitation alerts.
FaceTime gets Portrait Mode, better audio processing, and Windows/Android compatibility.
Wallet offers support for keyless entry with select home locks, hotels, offices, and cars, pending new hardware and/or software updates from the manufacturers.
Live Text recognizes text in Camera, Photos, and Safari, allowing you to copy text, translate, call a number, visit a link, or send an email just by tapping the picture.
Health allows you to share select data with a member of the family or with your doctor.
Siri requests are now processed on-device for added speed and privacy.
Safari gets plugin support, allowing your plugins to modify and interact with the content of websites. This adds a new level of capability for apps like ad blockers and password managers.
iCloud+ offers added privacy settings such as Private Relay which masks your Safari traffic as well as Hide My Email which allows you to create unlimited throwaway email addresses.
HomePod gets the ability to operate two HomePod minis as a stereo pair on Apple TV, Siri adjusts its volume dynamically based on ambient sound and your speaking volume, you can adjust your bass level, and more.
The corresponding update for Mac, macOS 12 Monterey, will probably be out in the next month.
To update
- Mac (macOS 13 Ventura or later): Click the Apple menu > System Settings > General > Software Update.
- Mac (macOS 12 Monterey or earlier): Click the Apple menu > System Preferences > Software Update. Apple Support Article HT201541
- iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch: Open the Settings app > General > Software Update. Apple Support Article HT204204
- Apple Watch: First update your iPhone, then on your iPhone tap the Watch app > General > Software Update. Apple Support Article HT204641
- Apple TV: Go to the Settings app > System > Software Update. Apple Support Article HT202716
- HomePod: Updates will install automatically. To push the update along faster see the instructions in Apple Support Article HT208247
Further help
If you are an existing customer who needs help with this or if you have other questions, or if you are in San Francisco and interested in becoming a client I invite you to book an appointment with me. Otherwise, you may wish to contact Apple Support or find a local Apple consultant.
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