Apple has seeded iOS 16.4 beta 2 to developers and beta testers. Although the latest update does not include major changes, it features notable improvements to Apple Books, Podcasts, and more.
Here is the list of everything new in the iOS 16.4 beta 2 update
Apple Pay in South Korea
iOS 16.4 will launch the Apple Pay service in South Korea which will allow users to save a digital copy of their credit and debit cards in the Wallet app and make wireless payments with their iPhone or Apple Watch.
Last month, it was reported that the contactless payment service would be available in the region but its launch was halted by the South Korean Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) to review its terms and conditions.
Books app gets new “curl” page-turning animation
Apple Books has gained a new “curl” page-turning option which gives a book-like feeling while reading. The new feature is also available on iPadOS 16.4 beta 2.
Previously, the curl animation replaced the traditional page-turning animation in iOS 16 which upset Apple Books readers. Now, it is reintroduced as an optional feature along with slide, and none turn page animations.
Podcasts app’s new splash screen to list new changes
To inform the users of all the new changes on the app, Podcasts now features a new splash screen.
The latest update of the Podcasts app includes channels in Library to easily access follow shows, an improved “Up Next” to quickly resume or skip episodes, and updated CarPlay to continue where users left off and browse new shows.
Always-On Display settings
iOS 16.4 beta 2 repositions the Always-On Display toggle in the Settings app. In the Always On Display section, the toggle to turn it on or off is now under the toggle of “Show Wallpaper” and “Show Notifications”. Previously, it was on the top.
AppleCare coverage section gains device icons
iOS 16.4 beta 1 added a new AppleCare coverage section in the Settings app to display warranty information for all the covered devices.
Now, the new iOS 16.4 beta 2 has updated the AppleCare coverage section with device icons for iPhone, Apple Watch, AirPods, Mac, and others.
Apple Music Classical code
The latest iOS 16.4 beta 2 also contains code for Apple Music Classical app. The reference line in the MusicKit framework reads ” To listen in Apple Music Classical, you’ll need to install Apple Music” which means that the new audio service will be integrated with Apple Music as users will be required to install the Apple Music app.
In 2021, Apple acquired Primephonic a classic music streaming service, and its music catalog in the Apple Music app. However, code found in iOS 15.5 and later updates suggested that the company is working on a standalone app “Apple Classical” app.
In the previous iOS 16.4 beta 1 update, Apple introduced new Beta opt-in options in the Software Update section of the Settings app for developers and public beta testers to quickly download the preferred beta update. Now, registered members can easily and quickly down the new iOS 16.4 beta 2 via Settings > Software Update > Beta Update.
