Apple releases first beta versions for iOS/iPadOS 16.6, macOS 13.5 Ventura, watchOS 9.6, tvOS 16.6.
Not much is know regarding updates in this set of beta versions. It seems that this release should enable iMessage Contact Key Verification.
Beta download: Operating Systems
Release notes do not contain any information so far.
Apple Developer: Get ready with the latest beta releases
Reference: iOS 16.6 Beta Lays Groundwork for iMessage Contact Key Verification
Apple releases RC for iOS/iPadOS 16.3, macOS 13.2 Ventura, watchOS 9.3 and tvOS 16.3. Apple announced that release will be available next week.
This update includes the following enhancements and bug fixes:
Apple
- New Unity wallpaper honors Black history and culture in celebration of Black History Month
- Security Keys for Apple ID allow users to strengthen the security of their account by requiring a physical security key as part of the two factor authentication sign in process on new devices
- Support for HomePod (2nd generation)
- Emergency SOS calls now require holding the side button with the up or down volume button and then releasing in order to prevent inadvertent emergency calls
- Fixes an issue in Freeform where some drawing strokes created with Apple Pencil or your finger may not appear on shared boards
- Addresses an issue where the wallpaper may appear black on the Lock Screen
- Fixes an issue where horizontal lines may temporarily appear while waking up iPhone 14 Pro Max
- Fixes an issue where the Home Lock Screen widget does not accurately display Home app status
- Addresses an issue where Siri may not respond properly to music requests
- Resolves issues where Siri requests in CarPlay may not be understood correctly
iOS/iPadOS 15.7.3 RC is also released with security bugfixes.
Beta download: Operating Systems
Release notes are not updated for Release Candidate.
References:
Apple publishes iOS/iPadOS 16.3 beta 1, macOS 13.2 beta 1, watchOS 9.2 beta 1 and tvOS 16.3 beta 1. No corresponding Xcode beta is there yet.
iOS 16.3 and macOS 13.2 beta 1 bring support for hardware security keys for Apple ID second factor announced recently. iOS beta also now shows guidance on HomePod handoff process.
Apple Developer: Get ready with the latest beta releases
Beta download: Operating Systems
Release notes:
References:
Guests in select Hyatt hotels could now use keys in iPhone wallets to access their rooms.
Guests can hold their device near the door's NFC-enabled lock to access key card-protected areas, and with the Express Mode, an iPhone does not need to be unlocked to use the room key. Should their iPhone run out of battery, the Power Reserve feature allows it to continue to be used for unlocking the door for up to five hours.
MacRumors
Reference: Apple Wallet Now Supports Hotel Keys From Some Hyatt Locations
According to Business Wire CCC Digital Key 3.0 standard includes support for Ultra Wideband radio. This makes Car Key even better on iPhones with U1 chip.
