The iOS 16.1 update supports iPhone models from iPhone 8 and newer. This version adds several features that weren’t available when iOS 16 launched in September.
After updating to iOS 16.1, users can create shared photo libraries instead of just one shared album like before, allowing up to 5 people. Everyone in the shared library can add, delete, edit, or favorite photos and videos.
A handy new Camera app feature lets you choose right away whether to automatically send photos to the shared library.
iOS 16.1 also brings Live Activities to the iPhone lock screen, showing real-time updates on sports scores, ride-sharing trips, food delivery progress, and more.
This feature is exclusive to iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max models, which have Apple’s Always-On Display technology.
With iOS 16.1, iPhone users can subscribe to and access Apple Fitness+ even without an Apple Watch. However, without the watch, they won’t see real-time metrics like calorie burn or heart rate.
Fitness+ offers guided workouts and meditation sessions for $9.99 per month or $79.99 per year. Apple is currently offering a 3-month free trial of Fitness+ with new iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV purchases.
Matter is a new smart home connectivity standard that lets users easily control smart devices from any brand, as long as they support the Matter protocol.
The iOS 16.1 update adds support for Matter accessories right on the home screen, making it easier to manage your smart home setup.
