Apple has begun mass distribution of iOS 14.5 and iPad OS 14.5, which have been tested over the past few months. There are many changes awaiting users, including updated privacy rules for applications in the App Store and the function of unlocking the iPhone with an Apple Watch, which will be useful when wearing a face shield.
As expected, iOS 14.5 introduces new privacy rules for apps published in the App Store. App developers will no longer be able to collect user data for personalized ads without explicit permission. It is worth noting that Apple’s new policy has been criticized by large companies that make money from advertising, such as Facebook. They believe that users, in most cases, will refuse to provide data to developers, and this will significantly reduce revenue from personalized advertising.
Another important innovation is the function of unlocking the iPhone using an Apple Watch smartwatch running watchOS 7.4 and higher. This feature comes in handy for people who wear face masks, making it difficult to unlock a smartphone using Face ID. In addition, along with iOS 14.5, the updated Podcasts application will become available to users, in which subscriptions are now available. There is now support for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X controllers, which can be important for gamers.
The distribution of iOS 14.5 and iPadOS 14.5 has just begun. It will take some time before the updates become available to all users of Apple devices.