Apple yesterday released “Release Candidates” for iOS 14.4 and its iPad counterpart to developers. It’s likely the final step before a public release. These new versions will give iPhone and iPad users the option to block tracking from third-party apps.
Developers can also install watchOS 7.3 RC and tvOS 14.4 RC – both of which were released yesterday.
iOS 14.4 RC and iPadOS 14.4 RC come with new privacy feature
“Release Candidate” is Apple’s new name for the “Golden Master.” It’s the final version that is tested by beta users before it’s released to the general public.
Users testing earlier beta versions of iOS 14.4 and iPadOS 14.4 are reporting that iPhone apps are specifically asking if they can track the user for advertising purposes. Apple introduced this privacy feature at its 2020 developer conference, but companies like Facebook that make money from tracking users are opposed to the feature, so the feature's debut was delayed. But the wait seems to be finally over.
The update will also notify users when it detects non-genuine cameras on the iPhone – in case a repair.
Don't forget watchOS 7.3 and tvOS 14.4
The release notes for watchOS 7.3 promise a “Watch inspired by the colors of the Pan-African Flag.” The ECG app will also be available to Apple Watch Series 4 users in Japan, the Philippines , and Thailand. The same goes for heart rate alerts.
As for tvOS 14.4 RC, we don't know what new features will be added to this version.
For now, the “release candidates” for iOS 14.4, iPadOS 14.4, watchOS 7.3, and tvOS 14.4 are only available to developers. But if Apple follows its usual strategy, public betas will be released soon — perhaps within a week. In the meantime, getting access to these builds ahead of release requires joining the Apple Developer Program, which costs $99 per year.
