iOS 14.5 update: features of latest version explained - from Tracking app to new emojis and mask unlock

The latest iPhone 14.5 update ushers in a number of new features – including the ability to unlock a device with Face ID whilst wearing a mask

Apple iPhone users are now able to update their devices to the latest operating system from the tech giant, with iOS 14.5 introducing a number of new features, emojis and functions.

This is everything you need to know.

What is the Tracking Transparency function?

The new update will allow users to unlock their iPhone using Face ID while wearing a face mask (Photo: YURI KADOBNOV/Getty Images/Shutterstock)The new update will allow users to unlock their iPhone using Face ID while wearing a face mask (Photo: YURI KADOBNOV/Getty Images/Shutterstock)
The new update will allow users to unlock their iPhone using Face ID while wearing a face mask (Photo: YURI KADOBNOV/Getty Images/Shutterstock)

One of the most discussed features of the newest iOS update involves the App Tracking Transparency function.

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It was first announced by Apple nearly a year ago, but the company delayed the launch of the app to give developers more time to work on the feature.

Apple says: “App Tracking Transparency requires apps to get the user’s permission before tracking their data across apps or websites owned by other companies for advertising, or sharing their data with data brokers.

“Apps can prompt users for permission, and in Settings, users will be able to see which apps have requested permission to track so they can make changes to their choice at any time.”

What new emojis are there?

The latest iOS 14.5 introduces a number of new emojis for users, specifically to do with the already existing couple with heart and couple kissing emojis.

The update offers new options to select different skin stones for each individual in the couple kissing and couple with heart emoji.

The iOS 14.5 update adds six new emoji characters:

- Face with spiral eyes

- Exhausted/exhaling face

- Face in the clouds

- Hearts on fire

- Mending heart

- Long haired character with beard

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Has Siri been updated?

With the new update, Siri no longer has a default voice - this means that users have to choose the voice that speaks to them when they first set up their device. In English, there are now more diverse voice options to choose from.

Apple says: “These new Siri voices use Neural Text to Speech technology for an incredibly natural sound.

“These updates further Apple’s long-standing commitment to diversity and inclusion, with products and services that are designed to better reflect our customers and the world.”

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It was announced as well that Siri now has new capabilities with support for Group FaceTime, which makes it easier to initiate calls with multiple contacts, or ask Siri to FaceTime the name of any group in messages.

In addition to incoming messages, Siri can also now announce incoming calls through AirPods or compatible Beats headphones, and supports calling emergency contacts if the iPhone owner needs assistance and is unable to make a call.

What else is new in the update?

This is everything else that you need to know about the new update.

Users will now also be able to unlock their iPhone when attempting to use Face ID whilst wearing a face mask by using their Apple Watch. With Apple Watch on the wrist, unlocked, and in close proximity to the iPhone, users can simply glance at their iPhone and they will receive haptic feedback from Apple Watch, indicating that their iPhone has been unlocked. This feature will work for iPhone X and later, and Apple Watch Series 3 and later.

Apple Podcasts has been given a redesign to show pages and make it easier to start listening - an option to save and download episodes has also been added so that they are automatically added to your library for quick access. Top charts, categories, and curated collections in the search tab also help listeners discover new shows.

AirTag support allows users to keep track of, and find important items, such as your keys, wallet, backpack and more, privately and securely in the Find My app.

Apple News features a new redesigned News+ tab, making it easier for subscribers to quickly find, download and manage magazine and newspaper issues. An all new Search experience helps all users find relevant articles.

Apple Fitness+ users are now able to stream audio and video to AirPlay 2-enabled TVs and devices.

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Reminders now has the added ability to sort by title, priority, due date (or creation date) and offers options to print reminder lists.

5G improvements for iPhone 12 models include Dual SIM support for 5G connectivity, and Smart Data Mode enhancements to further optimise the experience on the network, including better battery life and data usage.

Voice Control for Accessibility now gives users comprehensive navigation with just their voice.

How to download the latest update

To update your iPhone to the latest iOS operating system, you need to make sure that your phone is plugged into a charger and that it’s connected to the internet with wifi.

Then go to Settings > General > Software Update. From there, tap download and install.

Alternatively, you can choose to ‘Install Tonight’, which will update your device overnight whilst you sleep, as long as your phone is charging.

You might receive a message that asks you to temporarily remove some apps from your phone - this is because the update needs more space in order to download. You can choose to either continue, or cancel the update at this point.

If you choose to continue, after the update, the iOS will reinstall the apps that were removed.

You should make a backup of your device using the iCloud or your computer before updating to ensure nothing important is lost.

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