Apple started to roll out its iOS 14.5/ iPadOS 14.5 update, and it brings along with it the new App Tracking Transparency feature. It lets users decide whether to allow apps to track their activity “across other companies’ apps and websites” for advertising purposes.
If an app wants to share your activity, then you will receive a pop-up on your smartphone. Facebook has heavily criticized Apple over App Tracking Transparency, claiming that it presents “a false tradeoff between personalized ads and privacy.” However, the major reason for Facebook’s criticism is because the new feature will have a detrimental impact on Facebook’s ad business.
Coming back to the iOS 14.5 update, it includes a beneficial and timely new trick: if you own an Apple Watch, you can set your iPhone to automatically unlock without requiring a Face ID match or passcode as long as Apple’s smartwatch is on your wrist.
It will help get into your phone much quicker while we’re all still wearing face masks frequently throughout the day. However, the new feature requires watchOS 7.4, which is also available now for supported devices.
The new iOS and iPadOS 14.5 updates also have a ton of new emoji with a focus on inclusivity, and it also brings the ability to watch Apple Fitness Plus workouts on a TV with AirPlay 2. The new update also adds support for the latest video game controllers for the PS5 and Xbox Series X / S, and all iPhone 12 models will allow for 5G connectivity in a dual-SIM model in more countries.
The new update also states that the device will no longer default to a female-sounding voice for its Siri assistant. Instead, you’ll be prompted to choose your preferred voice during device setup.
