All major innovations that make the Cupertino giant’s mobile software even easier to use
The iOS 14.5 update brings new features to the iPhone, including the ability to unlock the iPhone with the Apple Watch when wearing the face mask, new Siri voices, new privacy controls, and new emojis.
Unlock iPhone with Apple Watch
An Apple Watch user can safely unlock the iPhone when trying to use Face ID while using the faceplate. With the smartwatch on your wrist, unlocked, and close to the smartphone, just look at the iPhone and a haptic feedback from the Apple Watch alerts you that the phone has been unlocked. The new feature is available in:
- iPhone X and later
- Apple Watch Series 3 and later
What’s new in Siri?
With iOS 14.5, Siri no longer has a default voice, but you can select the one you prefer during the first device setup; In addition, those who speak English will be able to choose among the most representative voices of diversity. The new Siri voices use Neural Text to Speech technology to deliver an extremely natural performance.
Siri also has new features to support group FaceTime calls – it’s easier to start a call with multiple contacts or ask Siri to FaceTime any group in Messages by saying their name. In addition to messages, Siri can now also announce incoming calls through compatible AirPods earbuds and headphones or Beats models, and can call emergency contacts if the iPhone user needs help and cannot initiate the call.
The new emojis
In iOS 14.5, it is possible to choose different skin tones for the two people in the kissing couple and the heart couple. Other new additions include a puffy face, one with spiral eyes and one in the clouds, flaming hearts, a bandaged heart, and a bearded woman.
