It took longer than necessary, but finally iOS 14.5, iPadOS 14.5, watchOS 7.4, tvOS 14.5 and macOS 11.3 can be installed. These new versions were expected by the end of March, but it is finally now that they have finally been released for the iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV and Mac that were already compatible with the previous versions. They also come loaded with news that are really very striking for being intermediate versions.
Unlock iPhone with mask and more on iOS 14.5
Both iOS 14.5 and watchOS 7.4 are closely linked and although the Apple Watch does not bring really remarkable news by itself, it will be of great help for the iPhone in its main novelty. Here’s a summary of the highlights of these versions, as well as iPadOS 14.5:
It is now possible to unlock an iPhone with Face ID wearing a mask thanks to the Apple Watch. Of course, both the watch and the phone must be in these software versions and this function has been enabled from Settings> Face ID and code.
- Compatibility with new video game controllers such as PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X, both for iPhone and iPad.
- New gestures in Apple Music with which, by sliding, you can carry out certain actions that were not possible until now.
- Redesign of the Podcast app in several sections such as the interface of the programs, with a very interesting style reminiscent of Apple Music.
- The Reminders app now allows you to sort the lists by dates, priorities or titles, as well as to print a complete list with the reminders.
- The 5G connectivity is compatible with Dual SIM after several months in which the iPhone 12 could only enjoy it on the main card.
- Scribble for iPad is now in Spanish for those users who have an Apple Pencil and are on iPadOS 14.5.
- New position of the Apple logo on iPad when they are horizontal and are turning on or installing an update, in true Mac style.
- Also on iPad it is now possible to search for emojis quickly and conveniently as it happens on the iPhone.
- There are some small visual novelties to inform that the iPhone, iPad or Apple Watch has been updated.
- In the software update tab it is now possible to select automatic download of security patches .
- New privacy functions and that is that the developers must already request permission from the user to access their random advertising identifier, thus avoiding the tracking of their activity.
- You can now configure the Apple Card as a family , although the card is still not available outside the United States.
- Apple News , in those countries where it is available, has added a new tab for direct access to the Apple News + service.
- Performance improvements, security and bug fixes is also another novelty that, as always, are present in these versions.
macOS 11.3 also brings interesting news
The Macs bring striking news in this new version of macOS Big Sur and that coincide in some aspects with the new iPhone and iPad.
- Support for new controllers such as the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X.
- New customization options for Safari , making it easier to organize sections on the home screen with Siri bookmarks and suggestions.
- Support for HomePod in stereo , functionality that until now was present on other devices, but not on Macs.
- New in the use of iOS apps on Mac M1 , since it is now much more comfortable to do so as they are better optimized.
- New Support section in “About this Mac” with the possibility to know details about the Mac warranty or request a repair.
- Apple Music, Podcast and Reminders also have visual novelties in this version similar to those of iOS and iPadOS, including the new ordering of reminders.
How to update your equipment
The fact of not having mentioned tvOS 14.5 is basically because there is hardly any news for Apple TVs , however it is possible to update in the same way as the others by going to Settings> System> Software update. On the iPhone and iPad you can do it from Settings> General> Software update. On an Apple Watch you can do it from Settings> General> Software update or through the iPhone in the Watch app. For Macs you will have to go to System Preferences> Software Update.