Apple announced iOS 16.3 release with long-awaited support for hardware security keys to provide extra protection against phishing attacks and unauthorized access to your devices. This means you can now secure your Apple ID with FIDO-certified physical key.
These hardware security keys are small physical devices that look like thumb drives that support USB-C or Near-field communication (NFC) to connect to a Mac or iPhone. The idea of hardware security keys is to use them as an additional verification step when using two-factor authentication for Apple IDs rather than the regular six-digit verification code shown on devices.
Security keys must be in close proximity of the Apple device to authenticate a login. This provides greater protection against hackers trying to log into your account remotely. Through common methods such as phishing attacks targetted at stealing Apple ID credentials and the one-time passcodes sent via 2FA verifications.
Other notable addition to the Apple iOS 16.3 release includes support for HomePod (2nd gen), watchOS 9.3, and a host of other fixes as listed:
- 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
To install the iOS 16.3 update on your iPhone or iPad, do the following:
- go to the Settings app.
- Tap General.
- Tap the Software Update tab.
- Tap Download and Install.
- Enter your passcode.
- Tap Agree.
- Tap Agree again in the pop-up window.
- Wait for the update to download and follow the prompts to restart your iPhone.
You should now have the latest Apple iOS 16.3 release running on your device.
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