Apple
Apple is dropping a slew of software updates on just about everyone with an Apple device today: iOS 16.1, tvOS 16.1, watchOS 9.1, tvOS 16.1
The updates to iOS, watchOS, tvOS, and the HomePod software are all bugfix updates to the original x.0 versions released in September, though they all add at least one or two user-noticeable features. iOS 16.1 is the first version to support shared iCloud Photo Libraries, the Apple TV update includes a new Siri interface, the HomePod update adds support for the Matter smart home standard, and the Apple Watch update can save significant battery life on newer models by reducing the number of times your watch checks heart rate and GPS readings.
But today’s iPadOS and macOS updates are the most significant, since earlier versions weren’t released alongside iOS 16 in September. Both bring the new Stage Manager multitasking interface plus a bundle of less-notable features—we cover the Mac’s version of these features in our full macOS Ventura review.
The iPadOS update requires a 5th-generation iPad or newer, a 5th-generation iPad mini or newer, a 3rd-generation iPad Air or newer, or any model of iPad Pro. Ventura will run on any Mac introduced in 2017 or later. The tvOS update will run on any Apple TV model that runs tvOS, and the watchOS update requires a Series 4 model or newer. iOS 16 requires an iPhone 8/8 Plus/X or newer.
