Apple released iOS 14.2 today. It includes a bunch of new features, as well as some important bug fixes and security updates. Among other things, this version comes with over 100 new emoji.
The new emoji are very interesting. What do we mean by interesting? The transgender flag, a smiling face with a tear, two people hugging, some insects and animals, and more. There will also be a Mx Claus, an alternative to Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus who is genderless. Tuxedos are no longer limited to men, and veils are no longer limited to women – you will be able to send an emoji of a woman wearing a tux and a man wearing a veil.
Today’s release also includes a new accessibility feature for blind users on iPhone 12 Pro and Pro Max. Thanks to the built-in lidar sensor, you can use your iPhone to detect the presence and distance of people around you through your iPhone’s camera.
While it's still useful beyond the COVID-19, you can use it to get an alert when someone gets too close to you. In addition to the audio alerts, you can also set a haptic pulse that gets faster as the person gets closer to you.
iOS 14.2 also adds a few minor features, such as new wallpapers, headphone volume level notifications when the volume is too high, and redesigned controls for AirPlay.
When Apple introduced the HomePod Mini, the company talked about a new Intercom feature that lets you interact with another Apple user in your home. Today's software updates add Intercom support to iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, AirPods, and CarPlay.
If you have AirPods, you can now enable Optimized Battery Charging. It works like Optimized Battery Charging on your iPhone. If you plug in your AirPods before you go to bed, they won't charge at full speed . Instead, your iPhone can tell your AirPods to charge to 100% right before you wake up — improving your battery life .
Apple is also releasing iPadOS 14.2 and watchOS 7.1. Apple Watch users in South Korea and Russia can now try out the ECG feature with their recent Apple Watch models.
Before updating, back up your device. Make sure your iCloud backup is up to date by opening the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad and tapping your account information at the top. Alternatively, you can connect your iOS device to your computer to perform a manual backup in iTunes or the Finder . Once that’s done, you’ll need to go to the “Settings” app, then “General,” then “Software Update.”
