Apple has released iOS 16.2 to all eligible iPhones that received iOS 16 in September. Alongside it, the iPad lineup also gets updated with iPadOS 16.2, and finally, we get watchOS 9.2 for the Apple Watch lineup. Let's kick it up with iOS 16.2.

iOS 16.2: The new features

Freeform


Some of the new features that arrive with the latest software update include a brand new cross-platform collaborative app, dubbed Freeform. It's essentially a virtual sketchboard that allows you to write, draw, insert various predefined shapes, lists, links, and so much more.

The app allows multiple users to collaborate on the same document in real time with updates synced instantaneously, making this one a killer creative space app that would do wonders for teams during brainstorming session. Best thing is, it works well alongside FaceTime, so you can be on a call with someone and share ideas in real-time. How cool is that?

Apple Music Sing


Another interesting new feature is actually an addition to Apple Music, dubbed Sing. We've already told you about the surprising karaoke functionality that was to be added to Apple Music a few days ago, but the gist of it is that Apple Music subscribers can now essentially adjust the volume of the vocals on a song or completely mute them in real-time, singing along in an improvised karaoke session. While the feature won't work with any song on Apple Music, there are plenty that support the new feature, and Apple has actually made a few dozen playlists with songs that are perfect for a karaoke get-together. Apple Music Sing is supported on the following devices: iPhone 11 and newer, iPad Pro 11" 3rd Gen and newer, iPad Pro 12.9" 5th Gen and newer, iPad Air 4th Gen and newer, iPad 9th Gen and newer, iPad mini.

Limited AirDrop from Everyone

Up until now, once you allow everyone with an iPhone to send you anything over AirDrop, the setting remained enabled for virtually forever. However, due to one reason or another, iOS 16.2 puts the kibosh on that one: you will only be discoverable by other AirDrop users for up to 10 minutes. Don't worry, people in your contacts list will be able to send you AirDrops without anything required on your part.


Advanced Data Protection

Moving on to some more important privacy features, we get Advanced Data Protection in iOS 16.2. This one is rather straightforward, expanding end-to-end encryption to any messages, iCloud backups, iCloud Drive, Notes, Photos, Safari data and bookmarks, Siri Shortcuts, Wallet content and passes, Reminders, and Voice Memos that you've backed up to your iCloud space. Essentially, everything backed up is encrypted, with the exception of the data used in Mail, Contacts, and Calendar, due to some legacy issues that prevent Apple from encrypting this particular data.