Toni Dimaano Tech 01.23.2023 20:Jan PM EST

Apple Releases iOS 16.3 Featuring Physical Security Keys And More

With the launch of iOS 16.3, Apple has increased the security of its mobile operating system with the introduction of physical security keys to its devices.

For customers facing unusual security dangers, the company's new solution, which was introduced last year, provides an additional layer of protection.

If you want to buy cheap Apple gadgets, the best place to go is Latest Deals. Their website publishes hundreds of new deals vouchers to help you save money on your next Apple purchase.

The Update Makes Devices More Secure

The third significant upgrade to the iOS 16 operating system, which was first introduced in September, was issued by Apple today as Mac Rumors reports.

iOS 16.3 arrives almost a month after the debut of iOS 16.2, an update that brought the Freeform app, Apple Music Sing, Advanced Data Protection, and more.

With the update released today, physical two-factor authentication will be available for Apple ID logins in place of the digital two-factor authentication that was previously required.

Support for physical keys should assist in preventing phishing schemes, which can deceive users into granting an intruder access using 2FA.

It is important to note that only individuals with physical access to the key can access user's account if they use a device like the YubiKey.

According to Engadget, the majority of security keys use USB, while some can be plugged into the iPhone's Lightning connection.

However, users can connect a USB key via Apple's Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter and NFC and Bluetooth keys should function with the iPhone.

With the new iOS 16.3 update, Apple also modified Emergency SOS to stop unintentional emergency calls from its users.

Holding down the power and volume-up buttons will still allow users to contact emergency services, but it will wait to dial 911 until they let go of the buttons.

This enables users to cancel before calling emergency services, preventing wasteful dispatches during fictitious crises.

iOS 16.3 Also Offers A Few Bug Fixes

Additionally, Apple addresses a number of flaws that can result in the iPhone 14 Pro Max temporarily displaying horizontal lines.

It also addressed inaccuracies in the Home Lock Screen widget's depiction of the state of the Home app, and Siri bugs relating to music requests and CarPlay.

According to Apple, here are the full list of updates and bug fixes as seen from a Mac Rumors report:

New Unity wallpaper honors Black history and culture in celebration of Black History Month
Security Keys for Apple ID allow users to strengthen the security of their account by requiring a physical security key as part of the two factor authentication sign in process on new devices
Support for HomePod (2nd generation)
Emergency SOS calls now require holding the side button with the up or down volume button and then releasing in order to prevent inadvertent emergency calls
Fixes an issue in Freeform where some drawing strokes created with Apple Pencil or your finger may not appear on shared boards
Addresses an issue where the wallpaper may appear black on the Lock Screen
Fixes an issue where horizontal lines may temporarily appear while waking up iPhone 14 Pro Max
Fixes an issue where the Home Lock Screen widget does not accurately display Home app status
Addresses an issue where Siri may not respond properly to music requests
Resolves issues where Siri requests in CarPlay may not be understood correctly