Apple iOS 16.2 update: Always-on display, iCloud encryption, Apple Music Sing, Freeform app and more

Apple iOS 16.2 update: In good news for iPhone 14 series users, the US-based tech giant Apple has started to roll out iOS 16.2, the second major update to the iOS 16 operating system (OS), which includes several new and improved features for the users such as improved always-on display.

"This update introduces Freeform, an app that offers a great place to brainstorm and bring your ideas to life. This release also adds Apple Music Sing, support for Emergency SOS via satellite on iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro models, Lock Screen improvements, and other features and bug fixes for your iPhone. Some features may not be available in all regions or on all Apple devices," the company said. 

According to the the company, iPhone 14 Pro users will take advantage of improved always-on display settings that allow users to disable the mode's wallpaper and notifications if they are too distracting. Other new features include end-to-end iCloud encryption, Apple Music Sing karaoke mode and much more.

End-to-end iCloud encryption in iOS 16.2 is called 'Advanced Data Protection' and is used to safeguard data like notes, iCloud backups and photos. The protection now extends to 23 "data categories," up from 14 previously and includes device backups, messages backups, iCloud Drive, notes, photos, reminders, Safari bookmarks, Siri shortcuts, voice memos and wallet passes.

For karaoke fans, Apple Music gets its own karaoke mode with iOS 16.2. It includes real-time lyrics and the ability to adjust the volume of vocals so singers can better hear their own voice. Talking about the iPad side, iPadOS 16.2 adds external display support for Stage Manager, which organises apps and windows so that users' desktop is clutter-free and they can stay focused.