Guide to iOS 16
iOS 16 introduces several new features and expands on current tools to enhance the experience on iPhone. In this guide, we break down the core iOS 16 features, how to check if your iPhone is supported, and the way you update to it.
You can find many iOS 16-supported devices in our range of iPhones at Mobiles.co.uk, including the iPhone 14, iPhone SE Third Gen, and iPhone 13.
What is the iOS 16 release date?
iOS 16 launched on September 12th as a downloadable update or pre-installed on iPhone 14 devices.
iOS 16 features
The core theme of iOS 16 is personalisation, letting you shape your iPhone to how you want to use it, along with some key security innovations.
Lock screen
The Lock Screen is something iPhone users will see frequently, but until iOS 16, it was quite static and had limited customisation. Times have changed, however, and so too has the Lock Screen.
In iOS 16, it can be personalised with your favourite images and given a unique flair with a choice of font styles. Multiple Lock Screen styles can be saved as templates, letting you change up your iPhone on the fly.
Widgets
Widgets can also be added to your Lock Screen, such as detailed battery level, your calendar, and the weather.
The benefit of Lock Screen widgets is being able to access this information without unlocking your phone. Having the weather or events immediately available brings you an additional layer of convenience.
Messaging
If there’s a message you want to edit or unsend, iOS 16 introduces the ability to do just that. You can amend a text after it has been sent or rescind it entirely; no more awkward autocorrect moments.
Passkeys
Maintaining dozens of passwords is a chore many will be familiar with and keeping them secure has long been a challenge for tech companies. iOS 16 looks to tackle this problem with Passkeys.
Passkeys are a piece of security data that can only be verified by inputting a code or biometric check, such as a fingerprint. They work in a similar way to two-factor authentication, but with an added shield of protection, only the user can provide.
What devices support iOS 16?
These are the iPhones that support iOS 16:
· iPhone 14
· iPhone 14 Plus
· iPhone 14 Pro
· iPhone 14 Pro Max
· iPhone 13
· iPhone 13 mini
· iPhone 13 Pro
· iPhone 13 Pro Max
· iPhone 12
· iPhone 12 mini
· iPhone 12 Pro
· iPhone 12 Pro Max
· iPhone 11
· iPhone 11 Pro
· iPhone 11 Pro Max
· iPhone XS
· iPhone XS Max
· iPhone XR
· iPhone X
· iPhone 8
· iPhone 8 Plus
· iPhone SE (3rd generation)
· iPhone SE (2nd generation)
How do I check if my iPhone is supported?
If you are unsure what version your iPhone is, you can check this within the Settings menu:
· Go to ‘Settings’ and tap ‘General’
· From here, tap ‘About’
· The model name of the iPhone you are using will appear
If you can’t see the model name, you will need to use the model number instead to identify what iPhone you have:
· Within the ‘About’ menu, tap the model number
· You should now see another number; this is what you need
· Go to Apple’s support page and search for this number
You will now know what model your iPhone is and whether it is on the list of iOS 16-supported devices.
How to update to iOS 16
Updating your supported iPhone to iOS 16 is a quick process that can be done wirelessly or via a wired connection.
To update wirelessly:
· First, backup your phone to iCloud
o This can be done by going to Settings > [your name] > iCloud
o Tap ‘Back Up Now and remain connected to the Internet or your mobile data until the backup is complete
· Next, ensure your iPhone is charging and still connected online
· Go to Settings > General > Software Update
· You should see your current iOS version, and an option to upgrade at the bottom. Tap ‘Install Now'
o If you see ‘Download and Install’ instead, tap this option and enter your passcode. ‘Install Now’ will then appear once the download is complete
iOS 16 is an exciting new operating system for those who want to deeply personalise their iPhone experience. If you are looking to make the jump to a new iPhone, check out our review of the iPhone 14 range, one of the most powerful iOS 16-supported devices.