Apple has iOS 14. 2 and iPadOS 14. 2 released for download. The operating system update can be downloaded via the integrated software update (Settings / General / Software update) or installed from a desktop PC via iTunes.

The new iOS version integrates the Unicode standard 13. 0 and contains over 80 new emojis, from ninja to beaver to a classic Italian hand gesture. New groceries, household items and musical instruments are also available, as Apple announced – as well as other gender-neutral emojis.

A small selection of the new emojis in iOS 14. 2.

(Image: Apple / Emojipedia)

New functions in iOS 14. 2 iOS 14. 2 contains a revised music control in the control center, which enables quick access to the audio content last played and music output via multiple AirPlay -Speaker intended to simplify. Apple also allows the purchased music recognition service Shazam to be added to the control center in order to quickly identify music played on the device via headphones.

With the update, Apple is also introducing the battery management system known from iPhones on AirPods: “Optimized charging” is intended to extend the battery life by using the earphones only up to 80 percent are loaded – instead of immediately to 100 percent. When playing very loud music through headphones, the operating system should also warn the user of possible hearing damage.

The magnifying glass function can be used in iOS 14. 2 the LiDAR sensor of iPhone Pro and iPad Pro 2020 to record people in the area and to name their distance – a new operating aid for users with impaired vision.

iOS 14. 2 also brings eight fresh background images as well as support for the new intercom function, with which voice messages can be sent to Apple’s WiFi speaker HomePod and other devices. Optionally, users can also anonymously share information about coronavirus encounter notices with health authorities, as Apple notes. Whether this function will also be introduced in Germany remains unclear for the time being.

Many bug fixes The updates for iOS and iPadOS also address a number of errors and problem areas, including jumbled apps in the dock or problems with the photos widget. Also, when creating new reminders, points in time from the past should no longer be suggested, as Apple lists, a possibly black screen during Netflix playback has been fixed. IPhone charging via the Qi charging mat should work reliably again instead of possibly being interrupted.

Apple also seems to have tackled a persistent bug that can lead to missing GPS tracks when recording sports activities with the Apple Watch – watchOS is probably also improving here 7.1 after. According to the manufacturer, restoring an iPhone via backup and migrating data from another iPhone no longer deactivates the corona encounter messages.

With iOS and iPadOS 14. 2 Apple also closes security holes. The manufacturer should publish information on the plugged vulnerabilities shortly.

(lbe) 2020