Apple's iOS 16.1 brought some big changes to the iPhone, but another iOS 16 update is already in the works that will bring a host of new features, as per reports.

The next major update to the iPhone operating system, iOS 16.2, is expected to launch in mid-December alongside iPadOS 16.2, according to Bloomberg's tech journalist, Mark Gurman.

"I've been told that Apple is aiming to introduce the upgraded models, which will include M2-based versions of the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros in the first quarter of 2023 and has linked the launches to the upcoming macOS Ventura 13.3 and iOS 16.3," Gurman said in his newsletter.

"Those software updates are expected to debut between early February and the beginning of March," he added.

iOS 16.2: Upcoming features

The new upcoming features that are sure to delight Apple users are as follows:

Live activities

iOS 16.2 is bringing back the Live Activities feature for all sports fans out there. This means that you'll be able to follow your favorite games in real-time right from your iPhone's lock screen. If you're an iPhone 14 Pro user, you'll even get live score updates on your dynamic island.

Freeform app

With the iPad OS 16.2 update, Apple will be launching Freeform. This app was first shown off at WWDC this year and allows people to collaborate in a single space using images, text, and videos.

External display support

iPadOS 16.2 will reintroduce external display support for select iPad models. This will allow users to connect their ‌iPad‌ to an external display and use ‌Stage Manager‌ to multitask with multiple windows and apps running simultaneously.

External display support was originally supposed to be included with iPadOS 16, but Apple delayed it due to unspecified issues.

Sleep widgets

The new Sleep widget in iOS 16.2 will give users more information at a glance about their sleep patterns. The three widget options include a bedtime summary, a bar chart representing sleep quality, and a larger widget that shows time in bed and a visual representation.

Customized home app

Apple has been putting a lot of effort into its Home app in iOS 16, with a new design that makes it easier to view and control smart home accessories. The latest update, iOS 16.2, brings a new architecture for the Home app that Apple says will make it faster and more reliable.

What is the iOS 16 beta version?

Beta versions are for pre-release testing that every iOS update goes through before it's officially launched. A beta can be small, like 15.5.1, or it can be a full-version game-changer, like iOS 16.

There are developer betas and public betas for new software releases. Both types go through multiple versions before a major launch. Developer betas are only for registered software developers while public betas are open to anyone interested in trying out the new potential update.

Please keep in mind that beta versions are tests of upcoming software that aren't completed yet. By definition, they aren't finished, and although most or all features in the final product should be included, there will be subtle differences and, as always, some glitches and issues that'll need to be dealt with. The glitches and issues are the very reason why Apple takes the time to beta-test iOS.

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