Apple has released the first beta for iOS 15.4, and includes a few changes and improvements for iPhone users. That is, there is now support to use Face ID while wearing a mask, Full Control, new emoji, and more. Go below as we include all the new features in iOS 15.4, iPadOS 15.4.
What’s new in iOS 15.4?
Face ID mask support
One of the biggest changes to iOS 15.4 is support for using Face ID while wearing a mask. Apple initially introduced support for unlocking your iPhone with your Apple Watch while wearing a mask last year, but now it is taking this feature to another level and eliminating the need for Apple Watch altogether.
When you start iOS 15.4 for the first time, you will be given the option to set up using Face ID with the mask. Apple explains that Face ID is “very accurate if set only for full face recognition,” but it is able to “see unique features in the eye area” to ensure you wear a mask.
If you choose to enable Face ID support in wearing a mask, Apple will guide you through the process of setting up Face ID. This is similar to the first process of setting the Face ID you go through when setting up a new iPhone. If you wear glasses, you also have the option of scanning your face with and without your glasses for extra accuracy.
After many delays, Universal Control has arrived. This feature allows you to control your Mac and iPad using the same keyboard and mouse / trackpad. Universal Control is automatically enabled for the latest beta for iPadOS 15.4 and macOS Monterey 12.3.
If you wear AirPods or other Bluetooth headphones and receive a call, the sound quality while playing the ringtone will be normal Bluetooth audio quality. Audio quality will only decrease once you have answered the call.
IOS 15.4 and iPadOS 15.4 include more than 30 new emoji, including a smiling face and peek, troll, and more.
IOS 15.4 allows users to add notes to their iCloud Keychain passwords for the first time, repeating the popular feature of third-party login managers.
Apple says: "Support has been added to the preview of the pass key technology, which allows you to sign in to websites that have passed the pass key and apps to Mac and iPad using the iPhone with the key access key."
TvOS 15.4 introduces a clever new way to use your iPhone to log in to wireless Wi-Fi networks on Apple TV. These are the types of networks commonly found in hotels, dormitories, and office buildings.
We haven't checked this yet, but Apple's release notes for iPadOS 15.4 and iOS 15.4 show that you can now use the adaptive trigger features of Sony's DualSense controls for iPhone and iPad.
Verified health records now support adding vaccination records in the EU Digital COVID Certificate (EU DCC) format to Wallet & Health applications
SharePlay is now an option from a built-in sharing sheet. Note that this will only appear in applications that support SharePlay.
The AirPods floating card now features a small icon (R) / (L) and a charging cover where both feeds and cases are displayed, but the buds have different regions.
IPadOS 15.4 includes a new Keyboard Light option that can be added to the Control Center.
You can now select what is displayed in the "Next" display of the TV app, which includes the options "Draft Frame" or "Poster Art."