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iOS 16

iOS 16 is the sixteenth major release of Apple's iOS mobile operating system for , announced on June 6, 2022, at the and publicly released on September 12, 2022. It introduced the most extensive redesign of the to date, enabling users to add customizable widgets, dynamic wallpapers that respond to time and location, and expressive font styles for time and date displays. The update emphasized personalization and productivity, with compatibility extending to iPhone models from the and later, while dropping support for older devices like the iPhone 7 series due to hardware limitations in handling new features. Key innovations included enhancements to the Messages app, allowing users to edit or unsend recently sent texts within a two-minute window and recover deleted conversations, alongside scheduled sending and improved media sharing via Shared Photo Library. Live Activities provided real-time updates from apps directly on the or Dynamic Island on supported models, such as sports scores or ride-sharing progress, reducing the need to unlock the device. Focus modes received deeper integration with system-wide controls, while gained features like message unsnoozing and VIP contact prioritization; these changes aimed to streamline communication and reduce distractions through empirical user interaction data from Apple's testing. Despite its advancements, iOS 16 faced user-reported issues including excessive battery drain, Wi-Fi disconnections, and performance lag on initial rollout, which Apple mitigated through point updates like iOS 16.1, though some persisted until later patches. The release marked a shift toward greater on-device without compromising core protocols, succeeding iOS 15's privacy-focused emphasis and preceding iOS 17's further AI integrations, solidifying iOS's position in maintaining high user retention through iterative hardware-software synergy.

Development

Announcement at WWDC 2022

Apple unveiled iOS 16 at its (WWDC) 2022 keynote on June 6, 2022, emphasizing personalization and communication enhancements across devices. The virtual event, streamed online, positioned iOS 16 as delivering the most significant update in iOS history, enabling users to customize with widgets, fonts, colors, and dynamic wallpapers that respond to time or location. Key demonstrations included new Messages capabilities, such as editing or unsending messages within two minutes of sending, scheduling deliveries, and collaborative features like shared lists integrated with Apple apps. received updates for unsending emails, scheduling sends, and a redesigned to prioritize important messages via transaction detection. The announcement also introduced Shared Photo Library for selective photo sharing with family, supporting up to six contributors and automatic organization. Further highlights encompassed Live Activities for real-time app updates on the , such as sports scores or ride-sharing progress, and expansions to Live Text supporting more languages and handwritten notes. Apple stated iOS 16 would launch in the fall of 2022, with developer betas available immediately post-keynote and public betas following in July. Compatibility was noted for iPhones from the onward, excluding older models like the iPhone 7.

Beta testing and developer previews

The first developer beta of iOS 16 was released on June 6, 2022, immediately following its announcement at Apple's (WWDC). This initial preview, available exclusively to registered members of the , enabled early testing of features such as customizable widgets and enhanced notification controls. Developers could install the beta through the Settings app by selecting the developer update channel under Software Update > Beta Updates, with subsequent versions released roughly every one to two weeks to incorporate fixes and refinements based on reported issues. Apple's beta testing process emphasized iterative feedback, with developers submitting reports and suggestions via the integrated Feedback Assistant tool, which logs device data to aid in debugging stability and performance problems inherent in pre-release software. Multiple developer s followed, including beta 2 on June 22, beta 3 on July 6, and later iterations up to a release candidate in early , allowing for extensive validation across compatible models before the general availability version. Apple cautioned participants that betas might contain unresolved s, recommending installation on secondary devices to avoid disrupting primary workflows. The public beta program, open to any user via free enrollment at beta.apple.com, began with its first release on July 11, 2022, typically trailing betas by two versions to ensure greater stability. This phase broadened testing to non-s, gathering diverse usage data to refine and compatibility, with public betas following a similar bi-weekly cadence and installation process as the track. Feedback from both programs contributed to polishing core enhancements, such as Live Activities and improved modes, prior to the stable iOS 16 launch on , 2022.

Compatibility

Supported iPhone models

iOS 16 is compatible with iPhone models equipped with the A11 Bionic chip or later, specifically those released from 2017 onward, excluding the first-generation . This includes the and iPhone 8 Plus, marking the oldest models supported, as well as the and all subsequent flagship and mid-range variants up to the series launched in September 2022. The second- and third-generation models, which share processors from the (A11) and (A12) respectively, are also supported despite their later release dates. The full list of supported models is as follows: This compatibility ensured broad adoption among users with devices from the past five years at the time of iOS 16's public release on September 12, 2022, while dropping support for older A9- and A10-powered models like the iPhone 6s, iPhone 7 series, and first-generation iPhone SE to enable new features requiring enhanced hardware capabilities.

Devices excluded from support

iOS 16 dropped support for several iPhone models that had been compatible with , specifically the , , , , and first-generation . These devices, released between September 2015 and March 2016, were powered by Apple's or processors, which Apple determined were insufficient for the performance requirements of iOS 16's new features, such as enhanced Stage Manager multitasking and improved on-device capabilities. The exclusion was announced by Apple on June 6, 2022, during its (WWDC), where compatibility was limited to and later models featuring at least the A11 Bionic chip. Owners of the excluded models remained on , which continued to receive updates until at least September 2022, but lost access to iOS 16-exclusive enhancements like customizable Lock Screen widgets and refined modes. This marked the end of software support for the iPhone 6s series after seven years, aligning with Apple's typical pattern of providing five to seven years of major updates per device generation. Additionally, iOS 16 discontinued support for the iPod touch (7th generation), the last model in that line, effectively ending iOS updates for non-iPhone hardware with A10 chips. Apple cited hardware constraints as the barrier, though no official rationale beyond compatibility lists was provided, prompting some users to criticize the decision for accelerating device obsolescence amid ongoing security needs for older A9/A10 hardware.

Core system enhancements

Lock screen and home screen updates

iOS 16 introduced a redesigned Lock Screen emphasizing personalization through custom wallpapers, including user photos with a multilayered depth effect that positions subjects in front of the time display, built-in gallery options such as Weather and Astronomy themes, and expressive font styles with color choices for the date and time. Users can create multiple Lock Screens and switch between them via horizontal swipes, with each supporting small and large widgets for glanceable information like weather forecasts, calendar events, battery levels, alarms, and fitness metrics, drawing inspiration from Apple Watch complications. Notifications on the were updated to roll up from the bottom, preserving visibility of the wallpaper and widgets while integrating with modes to link specific , widgets, and pages to contextual filters that reduce distractions. Live Activities provide updates, such as sports scores or ride-sharing progress, directly on the without unlocking the device. Home Screen updates in iOS 16 focused on enhanced integration with the Lock Screen, enabling independent wallpaper customization for the Home Screen separate from the Lock Screen during setup, and tying specific Home Screen layouts to Focus-linked Lock Screens for mode-specific app arrangements. Widgets on the Home Screen remained resizable and stackable as in prior versions, but gained better compatibility with Lock Screen data syncing, such as shared Activity rings or search access via Spotlight from the Home Screen bottom edge. These changes, announced at WWDC on June 6, 2022, and released publicly on September 12, 2022, aimed to make the interface more dynamic and user-controlled without altering core navigation gestures.

Notification and Focus mode refinements

iOS 16 introduced Live Activities, a dynamic notification format that displays real-time updates from apps directly on the and, on supported devices like the , the Dynamic Island, such as ongoing sports scores, ride-sharing progress, or delivery statuses without requiring full app interaction. This refinement addresses limitations in static notifications by enabling compact, glanceable widgets that update in near real-time via Apple's WidgetKit framework. Notifications on the were repositioned to the bottom in a stacked view by default, reducing overlap with customizable Lock Screen elements like widgets and clocks compared to the top-positioned banners in prior versions. Users gained options to adjust the display style via Settings > Notifications, selecting from (collapsed groups), Count (numeric badges), or (expanded previews) to balance visibility and minimalism. Focus modes received integration with the Lock Screen, permitting users to associate specific wallpapers, fonts, and widgets with individual modes, such as a work-themed setup activating automatically during scheduled hours. This linkage streamlines context-switching by syncing visual and functional elements across screens. Custom Home Screen pages could be designated per Focus mode, hiding non-essential apps during activation—for instance, concealing social media icons in a Sleep Focus while prioritizing clock or apps. Filters extended this to app-level behaviors, allowing developers to implement mode-specific customizations, like filtering inboxes to show only urgent messages in a Work or dimming social feeds in Personal mode. These filters, enabled through in WidgetKit and App Intents, required opt-in by app developers but enhanced granularity without altering core notification silencing. Setup for Focus modes was simplified with automated suggestions based on usage patterns, such as proposing a Driving Focus tied to connections, and expanded preset options including Sleep, Personal, and Work, all configurable via the Settings app. Cross-device ensured Focus states propagated via to paired Apple Watches and Macs, maintaining consistency in notification handling.

Control Center and multitasking

In iOS 16, released on September 12, 2022, Apple redesigned the Control Center to provide greater and . Accessed by swiping down from the top-right corner of the screen, the updated interface allows users to add, remove, and rearrange controls for functions such as , , flashlight, and media playback. Controls are organized into modular groups, with the ability to create multiple swipeable pages for separating categories like connectivity, smart home devices, and shortcuts, enabling quicker access without interrupting primary tasks. To customize, users enter edit mode by tapping the plus icon in the top-left corner, where they can drag controls to reorder, resize certain elements like sliders, or add new ones from an extensive list including third-party app integrations via Shortcuts. This contrasts with prior versions' fixed layout, prioritizing user-defined efficiency for frequent actions like toggling Low Power Mode or adjusting screen brightness during app use. Multitasking on iPhone with iOS 16 relies on the established App Switcher, invoked by swiping up from the bottom edge and pausing to display card-like previews of recently used apps. Users can swipe horizontally to navigate apps, tap to resume, or swipe up on a card to close it, with background processes continuing via Apple's managed multitasking model that balances performance and battery life. No fundamental changes to split-screen or windowed multitasking were introduced for iPhone, maintaining the single-app foreground focus inherent to iOS design, though video playback—available since —persists for supported media apps, allowing overlaid viewing while interacting with other interfaces. The enhanced Control Center indirectly supports task switching by offering rapid toggles without app navigation, such as activating modes to filter notifications across sessions.

Siri, Spotlight, and search improvements

iOS 16 introduced enhancements to Siri, enabling it to perform certain actions without requiring user confirmation, such as ending phone calls or sending messages. Siri also gained limited offline processing capabilities for basic requests, reducing reliance on internet connectivity for simple tasks like setting timers or alarms. Additionally, dictation was overhauled to allow seamless switching between voice input and keyboard typing, with support for inserting emojis and punctuation via voice commands. Spotlight search received updates for quicker access and expanded functionality, including a dedicated Search button at the bottom of the Home Screen for direct entry into the interface. A key addition was Quick Actions, allowing users to execute tasks directly from search results, such as starting a timer, activating a mode, identifying songs via , or running custom Shortcuts. Searching for an app name displays relevant shortcuts associated with it, streamlining workflows without opening the app. General search refinements in iOS 16 emphasized predictive suggestions based on user habits and real-time result updates as queries are typed, improving efficiency across apps and content. Users could customize search scope via Settings > Siri & Search, toggling app content inclusion and Apple suggestions to balance privacy and utility. These changes aimed to make more intuitive, though some users reported initial performance issues like delayed app indexing post-update, often resolvable by adjusting search settings.

Accessibility and input features

iOS 16 introduced Live Captions, an on-device feature that generates real-time text transcripts for spoken audio and sounds in videos, podcasts, phone calls, and other media played on the , supporting English in regions like the , , , and . This capability processes audio locally to maintain user without requiring connectivity or services. Live Captions appear in a persistent overlay and can be enabled via Settings > > Live Captions, with options to adjust text size and appearance. The Magnifier app, which leverages the iPhone's camera as a digital , gained new detection capabilities in iOS 16, including Point and Speak for audio readout of text labels on objects such as door buttons or appliance controls, and Detection Mode for identifying and describing people, animals, text, signs, and via visual recognition and spoken feedback. Detection specifically highlights locations and details like handles or numbers to assist for visually impaired users. These updates build on the app's core and filter functions, accessible from Control Center or the app itself. Spoken Content enhancements included eight new high-quality, more expressive voices for screen reading and text-to-speech, available in languages such as English (various accents), , , and others, selectable in Settings > > Spoken Content > Voices. These voices offer improved intonation and naturalness compared to prior options, aiding users relying on or Speak Screen. For motor and input accessibility, AssistiveTouch supported custom gestures, allowing users to map multi-finger actions—like double-pinch or triple-tap—to commands such as taking photos or returning to the , configurable in Settings > > Touch > AssistiveTouch. Apple Watch Mirroring enabled direct control of paired es from the , benefiting users with limited upper-body mobility by mirroring the Watch interface on the larger iPhone screen for gesture-based input. Keyboard input refinements included toggleable haptic feedback for tactile confirmation during typing, set in Settings > Sounds & , enhancing precision for users with motor challenges.

Built-in application updates

Messages and communication apps

In iOS 16, the Messages app introduced several enhancements primarily for communications between Apple devices, enabling users to sent messages up to five times within a 15-minute , undo sending within two minutes to retract a message before delivery, and mark messages as unread to retain notification badges for later review. These features address common user errors in digital communication but apply only to iMessage blue bubbles, not / green bubbles, due to Apple's ecosystem limitations and protocols. A new feature allows users to automatically notify selected contacts upon safely arriving at a destination, such as after walking home at night, by leveraging location services and automating status updates to enhance personal safety without manual intervention. This opt-in functionality integrates with modes and requires explicit sharing permissions, reflecting Apple's emphasis on privacy-controlled amid rising concerns over location tracking vulnerabilities. Messages also gained support for SharePlay, extending synchronized media playback—initially introduced in iOS 15 for —to group chats, permitting real-time sharing of movies, music, or TV shows with playback controls visible to all participants via or integration. Additionally, users can apply inline text formatting options like bold, italic, underline, and , alongside animated effects such as bubble expansions or slams, to enrich expressive messaging without altering core transmission reliability. For deleted messages, iOS 16 provides a 30-day recovery window from a "Recently Deleted" , aiding accidental removals while maintaining limits to balance and security. These updates, announced at WWDC on June 6, , and rolled out in the iOS 16 stable release on September 12, , prioritize within Apple's closed , though with non-Apple platforms remains unchanged, underscoring platform-specific innovation over universal standards. FaceTime saw minor refinements in iOS 16, including improved integration with SharePlay for broader media syncing, but no major overhauls; core capabilities like spatial audio and grid view, established in prior versions, persisted without significant alterations reported in official documentation. The app retained standard call handling, with iOS 16 focusing instead on system-wide communication enablers like enhanced Siri transcription for voicemails, though full Live Voicemail transcription debuted later in iOS 17 updates.

Media and productivity apps

iOS 16 introduced iCloud Shared Photo Library, enabling users to share a dedicated collection of photos and videos with up to five others via , with automatic addition based on faces, locations, or albums, while maintaining original libraries intact. The Photos app added the ability to copy and paste edits from one image or video to another, including adjustments to exposure, filters, or crops, streamlining batch editing workflows. Users gained granular undo and redo controls for individual edits, rather than reverting entire sessions, and a new "Lift Subject from Background" tool to isolate and copy subjects for pasting into other images or apps. Additionally, a dedicated Duplicates album automatically detects and suggests merging similar photos, and the Hidden album became locked by default with , , or passcode, enhancing privacy for sensitive content. The Mail app received enhancements for composition and management, including a 10-second window to unsend emails after tapping send, recoverable via the original outbox. Scheduling emails for later delivery became possible, with options to set specific dates and times directly in the compose sheet. "Remind Me Later" flags unread messages for notifications at a chosen time or when replying to another email, while "Follow Up" marks recipients or attachments as pending for proactive reminders. Search improvements included automatic corrections for typos and contextual suggestions, such as filtering by sender or attachment type, reducing retrieval errors. Notes expanded Quick Notes functionality to iPhone, allowing capture from any app or with automatic addition of contextual links to the originating or . Individual notes or folders could be locked using a custom password, device passcode, , or , with biometric access requiring explicit unlocking per session for security. Collaboration features permitted real-time editing and sharing via iCloud links, with participant management and activity tracking. Reminders introduced list templates for recurring tasks, such as grocery or travel checklists, savable and reusable with customizable sections and subtasks. Users could pin frequently accessed lists to the top of the app for quick navigation, and a dedicated "Completed" smart list aggregated finished items across all lists with filters for flagged or assigned tasks. Notes within reminders supported rich formatting, including bold, underline, strikethrough, and bullet points, enhancing detail capture without external apps. Shared lists displayed notifications for additions or completions by others, improving group coordination.

Safari and web-related changes

iOS 16 introduced 16, which included passkeys as a method leveraging and biometric verification via or for supported websites. Passkeys are stored in iCloud and synced across Apple devices, enabling seamless sign-ins without passwords while resisting attacks due to device-bound private keys. Safari gained shared Tab Groups, allowing users to organize tabs into named groups and share them with up to 100 participants for real-time collaboration, where additions or removals by any member update instantly across devices. This feature extends the Tab Groups functionality from prior versions, with shared groups appearing in the sidebar alongside private ones and supporting synchronization. Web push notifications became supported in on iOS 16, enabling websites to deliver notifications via the and Notifications API standards, integrated with Apple's Push Notification service for delivery even when Safari is closed. Users grant permission per site, and notifications respect modes, with developers required to implement service workers for handling. Safari extensions saw improvements, including cross-device syncing via and badges indicating activity like unread counts, alongside developer tools such as Web Inspector Extensions for debugging. protections advanced with enhanced Intelligent Tracking Prevention, blocking cross-site trackers and limiting exposure to known trackers on non-Private Browsing sessions. Users could add websites as full-screen web apps to the , which launch in standalone mode without browser .

Health, fitness, and utility apps

In iOS 16, released on September 12, 2022, the app introduced a dedicated Medicines feature allowing users to log prescription and over-the-counter medications, set dosage reminders, and receive notifications for potential interactions based on logged data. This functionality draws from user-input details and cross-references with known pharmacological data to flag risks such as reduced effectiveness or adverse effects when combining certain drugs. Additionally, the app's category expanded to display sleep stages—light, core, deep, and REM—derived from data for compatible models running 9, providing granular insights into nightly rest patterns without requiring manual entry. The app, previously restricted to Apple Watch owners, became accessible to all users in iOS 16, leveraging the device's built-in motion sensors to track metrics like walking pace, distance, flights climbed, and activity rings for Move, Exercise, and Stand goals. It integrates data from third-party sources, such as devices, to populate trends, awards, and summaries, enabling non-Watch users to monitor progress and receive motivational badges for achievements like closing rings over consecutive days. Apple Fitness+ content, including guided workouts, also extended to iPhone playback, broadening access to subscription-based video sessions synced with on-screen metrics. Among utility apps, the Wallet app in iOS 16 added support for order tracking, where users could view real-time updates for purchases like event tickets, boarding passes, and deliveries directly from participating merchants, with automatic addition via or Messages links. Digital car keys gained easier sharing options through apps like and Messages, allowing temporary access permissions with expiration timers for recipients. These enhancements aimed to consolidate transactional and access-related data into a single interface, though Later financing was announced but deferred to a subsequent iOS 16 update in spring 2023.

Security and privacy measures

Lockdown Mode and Safety Check

Lockdown Mode is an optional, extreme-level feature introduced in iOS 16 on September 12, 2022, designed to safeguard high-risk users—such as journalists, activists, or dissidents—from rare, sophisticated mercenary attacks like those employing zero-click exploits. It achieves this by imposing stringent restrictions on device functionality, including disabling most incoming message attachments (except from trusted contacts), blocking link previews in Messages, preventing the installation of configuration profiles, and restricting web technologies such as just-in-time () compilation, complex /CSS parsing, and certain font formats to mitigate drive-by downloads. Additional measures encompass safer defaults for wireless connectivity (e.g., disabling and unless explicitly allowed), limiting to known contacts, and blocking wired connections via or when the device is locked. These changes prioritize defense against targeted surveillance over usability, with Apple recommending it only for those facing verified threats, as it intentionally degrades features like media sharing and some app behaviors. Enabling Lockdown Mode requires navigating to Settings > Privacy & > Lockdown Mode, confirming the action, and restarting the device; it applies across linked Apple devices but can be toggled per-device. Safety Check, debuting alongside Lockdown Mode in iOS 16, serves as a streamlined tool for users—particularly those escaping abusive relationships or managing unwanted access—to audit and revoke data-sharing permissions granted to individuals, apps, or devices. Accessed via Settings > Privacy & Security > Safety Check, it consolidates reviews of shared location via Find My, Family Sharing memberships, Apple ID sign-ins on other devices, and app-specific permissions, enabling quick revocation without navigating disparate menus. For urgent scenarios, an "Emergency Reset" option immediately halts all location sharing, signs out of iCloud on unfamiliar devices, removes non-essential app access, and notifies the user of changes, while a "Quick Exit" button minimizes the interface to evade detection by abusers monitoring the screen. This feature addresses real-world risks like coerced access in intimate partner violence cases, where victims might have previously shared sensitive data under duress, by emphasizing speed and comprehensiveness over granular control during crises. Apple positions Safety Check as part of broader personal safety enhancements, integrated with Emergency SOS for holistic protection, though it requires iOS 16 or later and user-initiated review for effectiveness.

Passkeys and authentication changes

iOS 16 introduced passkeys as a passwordless authentication method, enabling users to sign in to websites and apps using biometric identifiers like Face ID or Touch ID, or a device passcode, instead of traditional passwords. Passkeys leverage public-key cryptography based on the WebAuthn standard developed by the FIDO Alliance, where a unique public key is registered with the service and the corresponding private key remains securely stored on the user's device or in iCloud Keychain. Announced at Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) on June 6, 2022, and available upon the iOS 16 release on September 12, 2022, passkeys sync across Apple devices via end-to-end encrypted iCloud Keychain, allowing seamless authentication without transmitting credentials over networks. Unlike passwords, passkeys are resistant to attacks because they are cryptographically bound to specific domains and cannot be extracted or reused remotely; authentication occurs locally on the device, verifying the site's legitimacy before releasing the credential. Apple claims passkeys provide superior security by eliminating risks associated with password reuse, weak choices, or breaches, as the private keys never leave the secure enclave of the device and are protected by hardware-backed operations. They also simplify user experience by autofilling during sign-in prompts in or supported apps, with options to create passkeys for new accounts or convert existing passwords. Authentication changes extended to cross-platform compatibility, where iOS 16 users can authenticate on non-Apple platforms via scanning or third-party password managers, aligning with industry efforts by and to standardize passwordless sign-ins. However, adoption depends on service provider implementation of APIs, limiting immediate universality; early supporters included and , but many sites retained password fallbacks. Security enhancements include recovery options through trusted devices or contacts, reducing single points of failure while maintaining cryptographic integrity, though critics note potential vulnerabilities if access is compromised despite Apple's safeguards.

Rapid Security Responses

Rapid Security Responses represent a mechanism introduced by Apple in to enable the deployment of targeted patches independently of full-point software updates, allowing for faster remediation of critical vulnerabilities. These updates focus exclusively on fixes, such as addressing actively exploited flaws, and are designed to minimize user disruption by requiring only a small download and device restart rather than a comprehensive OS reinstallation. The feature supports versions compatible with the latest release at the time of deployment, ensuring that devices running supported builds can receive protections without version fragmentation. The capability was enabled starting with iOS 16, though the inaugural deployment occurred on May 1, 2023, as iOS 16.4.1(a), which patched a specific zero-day vulnerability in the Kernel framework (CVE-2023-28206) and WebKit (CVE-2023-28205) that could enable arbitrary code execution. Subsequent responses for iOS 16 included iOS 16.5.1(c) on July 12, 2023, targeting similar high-severity issues like sandbox escape vulnerabilities. Apple classifies these as the highest-priority updates, often responding to real-world exploits, thereby reducing the window of exposure for users compared to traditional update cycles that might take weeks or months. In operation, Rapid Security Responses are delivered via Apple's standard update channels but install as lightweight components—typically under 10 MB—that integrate directly into the existing system without altering the base version number. Users are prompted to approve installation, after which the device reboots briefly to apply changes; subsequent responses may install more seamlessly if automatic updates are enabled. This approach contrasts with full updates by avoiding extensive testing for non-security features, prioritizing speed to counter threats like nation-state attacks or campaigns. While effective for urgent patches, the system relies on users maintaining devices on recent iOS 16 builds, as older versions remain ineligible.

Data protection enhancements

iOS 16 introduced Advanced Data Protection for , an optional setting that expands to additional data categories including iCloud Backup, Notes, Photos, Reminders, Bookmarks, Shortcuts, and , thereby ensuring Apple cannot access this data even under legal requests. Previously, these categories relied on Apple's encryption keys; with Advanced Data Protection enabled, users hold the keys via device passcodes and recovery methods like iCloud Security Keys or recovery contacts, reducing risks from server-side vulnerabilities or compelled disclosures. This feature became available starting with iOS 16.1 on December 7, 2022, and requires compatible devices with the latest software, emphasizing user-controlled to mitigate total data loss from forgotten credentials. The Notes app in iOS 16 added the ability to lock individual notes using , , or a device passcode, preventing unauthorized access to sensitive content even if the device is unlocked. Locked notes are stored encrypted on-device and in (when Advanced Data Protection is active), with contents hidden from previews and search until authenticated. Access to the Hidden photo album and Recently Deleted folder was enhanced to require biometric or passcode, up from previous versions where these could be viewed without additional verification on an unlocked device. This change protects potentially sensitive media from casual exposure, such as when handing the device to others, while maintaining recovery options for deleted items within 30 days. iOS 16 implemented a permission prompt for pasting content copied from another Apple device via features, alerting users to potential cross-device data leaks and allowing denial of the paste action. This addresses risks from clipboard hijacking or unintended sharing of private information, such as credentials or addresses, between linked devices.

Performance and reliability

Battery optimization and efficiency

iOS 16 incorporates safeguards to protect longevity during charging, including a "Charging " alert that pauses the process if the device detects excessive heat, thereby mitigating accelerated chemical degradation in lithium-ion cells caused by high temperatures. This feature activates automatically when environmental or internal conditions exceed safe thresholds, resuming once temperatures normalize. The operating system retains and refines Optimized Battery Charging, introduced in prior versions, which uses to delay charging beyond 80% until shortly before the user's typical unplug time, reducing time spent at full capacity and slowing capacity fade over cycles. Users can view detailed battery health metrics, including maximum capacity and cycle count, via Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging, with iOS 16 enabling recalibration for accurate reporting on supported models. Low Power Mode remains a core efficiency tool, dynamically throttling CPU and GPU performance, disabling background app refresh, and reducing display refresh rates to extend runtime during low charge states; in iOS 16, it integrates with modes for scheduled or contextual activation, such as during hours or specific locations, to preemptively conserve power without manual intervention. This automation leverages on-device to balance usability and efficiency. iOS 16 displays battery percentage directly in the status bar by default on Face ID-equipped iPhones, facilitating real-time monitoring and proactive adjustments like enabling Low Power Mode at user-defined thresholds. Upon initial release on September 12, 2022, some users reported excessive drain attributed to indexing new features like customizable Lock Screens and enhanced Manager multitasking, but point updates such as iOS 16.0.3 (October 24, 2022) resolved underlying bugs, yielding battery endurance comparable to on identical hardware in standardized tests.

Hardware-specific optimizations

iOS 16 incorporated optimizations tailored to the display hardware of the and iPhone 14 Pro Max, enabling the functionality. This feature maintains a persistently visible at reduced and a 1 Hz when the device is idle and locked, leveraging the LTPO panels' capability for variable refresh rates. Such adaptation minimizes power draw by avoiding full-screen refreshes, while preserving visibility of widgets, time, date, and notifications; users can opt to suppress or alerts in this mode for additional efficiency. The same models benefit from Dynamic Island optimizations, where iOS 16 dynamically expands the pill-shaped cutout housing the front camera and sensors to interact with system and app activities, such as Live Activities for timers, music controls, or navigation prompts. This hardware-specific implementation ensures fluid animations and contextual responsiveness without obstructing content, distinct from the static notch handling on prior devices. For iPhones equipped with displays, including the series and models, iOS 16 employs adaptive refresh rate scaling from 120 Hz during motion-intensive tasks like scrolling to lower rates for static content, optimizing GPU utilization and reducing thermal output on A15 Bionic and A16 Bionic chips. These adjustments build on prior iOS versions but align with iOS 16's enhanced and widget rendering for sustained high-frame-rate performance without excessive battery depletion.

Reported performance regressions

Upon the release of iOS 16 on September 12, 2022, numerous users reported elevated battery consumption compared to , particularly on and models, with some experiencing only 4.5 to 5 hours of screen-on time under typical usage. These complaints surfaced on platforms including forums and , where users attributed drain to background processes or features like haptic feedback, which disabling temporarily mitigated for some. Apple addressed this in point releases, with iOS 16.0.2 on September 23, 2022, and iOS 16.0.3 on October 10, 2022, incorporating optimizations that reduced excessive drain for affected devices. Spotlight search functionality exhibited delays of up to 10 seconds or outright failures in loading results immediately after upgrading to iOS 16, as documented in user threads on and forums. Restarting devices or resetting all settings resolved the issue for many, suggesting it stemmed from incomplete indexing or buildup during the initial post-update period rather than a fundamental . No widespread benchmarks indicated broader search performance degradation, and the problem diminished with subsequent usage or minor interventions. Animation stutters and lag, notably during swipe-up gestures to return to the or app switching, were prevalent on and Pro Max models running early iOS 16 builds, with users describing choppy frame rates and inconsistent fluidity. These issues persisted across restarts and were reported in forums as early as September 2022, potentially linked to interactions or optimizations. Apple mitigated them via software refinements in iOS 16.2, released November 2022, which users confirmed smoothed scrolling, exiting animations, and overall system responsiveness on ProMotion-equipped devices. Independent benchmarks, such as scores, showed no aggregate CPU or GPU regressions relative to iOS 15 on compatible hardware, indicating these were isolated software artifacts rather than hardware-induced slowdowns.

Known issues and criticisms

Launch bugs and glitches

Users reported excessive battery drain shortly after iOS 16's release on September 12, 2022, attributing it to background processes and new features like the updated . Device overheating was another prevalent issue, often linked to intensive animations and rendering on older such as 8. The AssistiveTouch feature malfunctioned, preventing users from repositioning the floating button on the screen, which affected accessibility-dependent individuals. Notification handling glitched, with alerts failing to open corresponding apps or displaying intermittently, particularly on gesture-based interactions. On models, a hardware-software interaction caused the rear camera to shake uncontrollably during video recording, impacting a subset of devices; Apple issued 16.0.1 on September 23, 2022, as a targeted fix for this and related photo corruption. Additional glitches included banking applications crashing upon launch, delays in screen locking, and failures to update third-party apps via the , exacerbating user frustration in the initial week post-launch. These issues, while widespread in user forums, were mitigated in follow-up updates like iOS 16.1, though some persisted on non-Pro models.

User-reported problems

Upon release of iOS 16 on September 12, , numerous users reported excessive battery drain, with devices consuming power at rates up to 20-30% faster than on , particularly during idle periods or background app refresh. This issue affected a range of models, including the series, and was attributed by some to increased CPU usage from new features like customizable Lock Screens and enhanced widgets, though Apple did not officially confirm a root cause. Subsequent point updates like iOS 16.0.2 partially mitigated it for some, but complaints persisted into early 2023. Connectivity problems emerged prominently in iOS 16.1, released October 24, 2022, where networks would randomly disconnect, especially when devices were in standby mode overnight, leading to failed reconnections without manual intervention. Apple acknowledged the bug indirectly by preparing iOS 16.1.1 to address it, affecting users across and later models. Bluetooth pairing instabilities were also noted sporadically, though less widespread than Wi-Fi issues, often resolved via network resets but recurring post-reboot. Interface and functionality glitches included Search failing to respond or returning incomplete results, sometimes requiring device restarts, and the on-screen keyboard occasionally not appearing in third-party apps like Messages or . These persisted for months, with users on older like reporting exacerbated lag. Activation failures during initial setup for new or transferred devices over were confirmed by Apple, stemming from server-side errors resolvable only via cellular or later patches. Overall, while many bugs were patched in minor updates through iOS 16.7 in 2023, a subset of users continued experiencing intermittent crashes and hiccups, highlighting incomplete optimization for diverse configurations.

Criticisms of feature implementation

The redesigned Photos application in iOS 16 received substantial backlash for its fragmented interface, which consolidated media into a single "Library" view while obscuring traditional albums and collections, complicating navigation for users accustomed to prior layouts. Critics and users reported that the unified grid buried specific photos and videos deeper in the app, requiring additional taps to access organized folders, which undermined efficient browsing and search functionality. Lock screen customization, a flagship addition allowing widgets, fonts, and depth effects, was faulted for its intrusive activation mechanism, where long-pressing the screen inadvertently triggered editing mode during routine use, such as glancing at notifications. The default clock font was described as overly bold and , clashing with the minimalist aesthetic and reducing readability in various lighting conditions. implementation was limited to small, complication-style elements, often providing redundant or low-value information compared to home screen alternatives, exacerbating accidental interactions without sufficient safeguards. The iMessage "Edit" and "Undo Send" features, permitting up to five edits within 15 minutes or full retraction of sent messages, drew criticism for enabling potential evidence tampering in legal and forensic contexts, as edited messages retain server-side logs but alter recipient views without clear indicators. advocates highlighted risks of abusers unsending incriminating texts to conceal communications, complicating victim documentation and investigations. The features' restriction to iMessage—excluding SMS/MMS interoperability—further limited utility while amplifying concerns over inconsistent behavior across messaging ecosystems.

Reception and impact

Critical and analyst reviews

Critics and analysts praised iOS 16 for its emphasis on and quality-of-life improvements rather than radical overhauls, with the redesigned emerging as the most celebrated addition. Reviewers noted that the update allowed users to personalize the with widgets, fonts, colors, and dynamic wallpapers, transforming it from a static into a functional hub for quick information access. The Verge described it as "the true star of iOS 16," crediting Apple for reconceiving its purpose to integrate notifications and widgets seamlessly. Additional features like editable and unsendable messages (within a 15-minute editing window or 2-minute unsend limit) and enhanced Live Text capabilities, including video support and Visual Look Up for object identification, were highlighted for enhancing everyday usability. awarded iOS 16 a 4.5 out of 5 rating, calling it a "superb enhancement" with "impressive, highly customizable " options and convenient tools like Visual Look Up. Tom's Guide similarly rated it highly as Apple's "best software update in years," appreciating tweaks to Messages, Maps (with multi-stop routing), and the addition of medication tracking in the app. Some reviewers pointed out limitations, such as certain effects requiring compatible photos and Messages features functioning only within Apple's ecosystem if recipients use . emphasized the update's focus on unlocking customization but noted it lacked broader systemic changes compared to prior versions. acknowledged the lock screen's utility while observing that deeper integrations and third-party app support remained incremental rather than transformative. Overall, the consensus positioned 16 as a refined, user-centric suitable for update on compatible devices, though not a must-upgrade for those content with iOS 15's core functionality.

User adoption and feedback

iOS 16 achieved rapid adoption following its public release on September 12, 2022. Analytics from indicated that approximately 22% of iPhones updated within the first week, with adoption climbing to 69% three months later. Apple's data reported 72% of all active iPhones and 81% of devices introduced in the prior four years running iOS 16 by February 2023. By June 2023, this expanded to 81% across all active iPhones, surpassing the pace of subsequent versions like iOS 17. The broad with and newer models contributed to this uptake, enabling access to features on a significant portion of the installed base. User feedback highlighted appreciation for iOS 16's customization enhancements, particularly the revamped with widgets and depth effects, which increased personalization without compromising usability. Many users praised the improved mode refinements and Live Activities for providing real-time glanceable information, such as sports scores or ride-sharing updates, fostering a sense of utility in daily interactions. Surveys and firms noted that these non-intrusive updates drove upgrades, with metrics reflecting sustained over invasive changes seen in prior releases. Initial reports included some dissatisfaction with battery efficiency and minor glitches on older hardware, though these diminished with updates like iOS 16.1, which optimized performance and addressed early complaints. Overall, the version's stability post-patches led to prolonged usage, with 20% of recent iPhones still on as late as early 2024, indicating reliable long-term appeal amid slower shifts to iOS 17.

Long-term legacy and updates

iOS 16, released on September 12, 2022, underwent a series of point releases extending into 2025, primarily delivering security patches, bug resolutions, and minor feature refinements for devices ineligible for , such as the , , , and certain iPad models. Notable updates included iOS 16.1 on October 24, 2022, which added Apple ID sign-in capabilities for ; iOS 16.7 in September 2023, enhancing stability; and later iterations like iOS 16.7.11 on March 31, 2025, addressing vulnerabilities in components such as and . By September 2025, iOS 16.7.12 provided fixes for additional exploits, including one in the Image I/O framework, ensuring protection against zero-day threats for legacy hardware. These prolonged updates aligned with Apple's practice of supplying security support for roughly seven years post-device launch, enabling series users—introduced in 2017—to maintain secure operation without hardware upgrades. The final security releases in 2025 marked the effective end of active maintenance for iOS 16 on non-upgradable devices, after which users faced risks from unpatched vulnerabilities if remaining on the OS. The enduring legacy of iOS 16 centers on bridging usability gaps for aging iPhones by introducing customizable Lock Screens, widget expansions, and Live Activities—elements that persisted and evolved in and beyond, standardizing dynamic home interfaces across Apple's ecosystem. This approach mitigated criticisms by extending feature parity to 2017-era models, though it highlighted tensions between cycles and device , as drops accelerated upgrade pressures. Third-party developers maintained app with iOS 16 into 2025, supporting and personal use on unsupported , but declining on older chips underscored limits of software-only extensions.

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