iPhone Tricks > Reviews
Posted in Reviews by Patricia on January 8, 2023
iOS 16.3 update
iOS 16.3 is the next major software update planned by Apple. Beta 1 has been already released, since mid-December, and we’re currently expecting the 2nd test version to roll out with new features, improvements and bug fixes!
iOS 16.3 Release Date
Apple usually releases at least four beta test versions, until the Release Candidate is rolled out.
Our iOS 16 timeline confirms that iOS 16.1 (Monday, October 24) required 5 beta versions + the RC release, while iOS 16.2 (Tuesday, December 13) had 4 betas and the RC.
We’re currently at Beta 1 stage, the scheduled would require a minimum of five more weeks until the iOS 16.3 public release, if test versions are released at a fast rate of 1 version per week.
This means that we can expect iOS 16.3 Beta 2 on January 9, Beta 3 on January 16, Beta 4 on January 23 and the RC version on January 30.
The soonest iOS 16.3 release date in this scenario would be Tuesday, February 7 or Wednesday, February 8, 2023.
Fact: For comparison’s sake, iOS 15.3 has been released on Wednesday, January 26, 2022.
iOS 16.3 Features
Changes and improvements included in this version are highlighted here, as soon as they’re reported in the upcoming beta version:
- 1. Physical Security Keys for Apple ID are now available in Settings -> Apple ID -> Password & Security -> Add Security Keys.
- 2.
- 3. To be updated!
How to: Users that enable this feature, will use a hardware security key for two-factor authentication instead of a verification code from another Apple device.
Fact: At the moment, Apple does not plan to release its own hardware security keys. The feature requires third-party security keys like YubiKey 5Ci, which packs both Lightning and USB-C connectors for iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
iOS 16.3 Release Notes
The full update log will be updated here one week before the public release, as it will be available along with the Release Candidate test version.
Are you currently testing out iOS 16.3? What bug fixes are you expecting to get? Share your feedback in the comments!
Related: For more iOS 16.3 info check our detailed Beta 1 review.