- Apple released iOS 14.3, iPadOS 14.3, and watchOS 7.2.
- HomePod lineup gets iOS 14.3 updates, a generic upgrade.
- Handoff feature in iOS 14.3 update not mentioned by Apple.
- Support for Apple ProRAW, Fitness+, AirPods Max added in iOS 14.3.
Apple released iOS 14.3 and iPadOS 14.3 yesterday for all users. It is a massive update in terms of features and changes. It brings support for Apple ProRAW for iPhone 12 Pro users, among other features. Today Apple released iOS 14.3 for HomePod and HomePod mini as well.
Apple’s release notes describe iOS 14.3 as a generic update for its smart speakers. It says, ‘This update includes general performance and stability improvements.’ It seems like the new handoff experience between Homepod and iPhone is not included in this update.
What is Handoff?
HomePod mini comes with a U1 chip that enables quick Handoff between the two devices. The U1 chip allows precise positioning with Ultra-Wideband Radio (UVB). It makes UWB enabled devices to locate their exact position concerning other devices in its vicinity. HomePod mini leverages the U1 chip to switch playback content between an iPhone and itself with just a tap.
How to update your HomePod?
The updates for the HomePods are still being rolled out. To check if it is available for your device, head over to the Home app. Once inside the app, tap on your HomePod and open the Settings menu. Look for the software update and tap install.
New features in iOS 14.3
This update brings some of the most awaited features Apple promised during iOS 14 and iPhone 12 launch. A highlighting feature was the support for the new ProRAW photo format. Apple ProRAW enables iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max users to capture RAW images from their cameras. Images captured in RAW format provide more flexibility to adjust elements like color and white balance in post-processing.
Apple has made changes to its Music app, the TV app, and the News app as well. Apple News+ Audio channels are available to users and the audio stories will be accompanied by their text-version links. The Apple TV app gets minor tweaks and bug fixes as well.
