Apple’s iOS16.4 Introduces New Emojis, Web Push Notifications and Added Security

Apple finally launched its much-awaited iOS16.4 update almost two weeks after its fourth beta build was available for public testing. 

The new patch introduces 21 new emojis to its current roster, including a shaking face, feathered wings, new heart colors, new instruments and new animals like the jellyfish, goose and moose.

Web push notifications will also be integrated in the software, allowing web apps saved on the home screen to ask a user’s permission to send them system notifications, much like other apps.  

The iOS16.4 update also consists of a new Control Center setting that allows users to block out ambient noise around them while taking calls, the return of the page-turning animation in the Books app and a Podcasts app upgrade, with features such as an ‘Up Next’ queue, episode filtering, and the ability to browse podcasts by season. 

For beta-testing registered devices, users can select whether they want to receive beta updates, Developer Beta updates, or Public Beta updates by opening Software Updates inside Settings. Beta testers will also now require an authorized developer account to install beta updates.  

When it comes to user security, iOS16.4 is introducing 30 new updates that address Calendar, Find My and WebKit app protection among others.  

To download iOS16.4, users can head to Settings > General > Software Update if their device hasn’t automatically updated.