Recently Apple Released the Stable build of iOS 16.3 for all compatible iPhones, and it brings in some great features. The very first and the most important change here of them all is support for its hardware security keys that would keep your Apple ID.
A security key happens to be an external device that looks more like a USB thumb drive but serves the critical job of identity verification.
Apple iOS 16.3 Released
These keys are usually deployed as an added layer of protection when it comes to the same vein as two-factor authentication, but the deal here is that instead if getting a two-factor authentication, the idea here is that instead of getting a two-factor code on your registered mobile number or email address, a security key would handle the two-factor verification at the hardware level.
So, if you would like to protect your Apple ID from unauthorized logins, all you have to do is plug the security key into your iPhone’s port and it would handle the two-factor authentication making use of a complex system of security protocols stored on a chip.
When you enter your Apple ID credentials and the two-factor authentication prompt pops up on your screen, plug in the security key drive right into your iPhone and this would very your identity. At the moment, a physical security key happens to be the most fool-proof system for protecting your accounts and wallets mainly because it is always in your possession. Making use of a physical security key which is an optional feature on iPhones.
How to use Security keys with an iPhone
There are tons of lightning-based physical security keys available, but Apple recommends the ones that are sold by Yubico and Feitan. But if you would like to make use of other brands, make sure that they are FIDO-Certified.
In order for you to make use of a security key, first you would need to enable two-factor authentication on your iPhone. Once you are done with that, follow these steps to set up a physical security key to safeguard your Apple ID:
- First install the iOS 16.3 update on your iOS device
- Right after installing the software update, launch the settings app and then tap on your name at the top
- Then tap on Password and security, followed by Add Security keys
- Follow the on-screen prompts, select your devices linked to the same Apple ID, and then you are set.
Next in line with the iOS 16.3 changes is support for the second-gen HomePod smart speaker, as well as a much wider rollout of the advanced Data protection feature that now encrypts 23 types of data Stored in iCloud storage. New Unity wallpaper honoring Black History Month is available also.
Also, Apple has tweaked the button gesture for activating an SOS alert on iPhones. You would now have to hold and then release the power + volume button combo in other to call an emergency helpline. Earlier, users are only expected to long-press these buttons, which leads to accidental SOS calls.
FAQ
What Does iOS 16.3 do?
The iOS 16.3 update brings about a new utility wallpaper that honors Black history and culture in celebration of Black History Month, Security Keys for Apple ID, and this includes other enhancements, bug fixes, and security updates available for the new iPhone.
Which iPhone will have 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.
When iPhone iOS 16 will Launch?
The very first beta developer of the iOS 16 was released on June 6, 2022. iOS 16 was officially released on September 12, 2022. Initial release on the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro Models.
Is iOS 16 Worth Upgrading?
And is always possible that you are facing issues that you did not have before. With that stated, between the new features and security updates available, iOS 16.1 and beyond, we really think most users be better off if they make use of the latest version.
