iOS 16 launches September 12
Enlarge (credit: Apple)
CUPERTINO, Calif.—iOS 16, the next major annual software update for the iPhone, arrives for supported devices on September 12, Apple announced today. The update didn't get a release date during Apple's big keynote, but shortly afterward, the iOS 16 website was updated with release information. The iPhone 8 and newer devices will be supported.
The biggest change in iOS 16 is arguably a total overhaul of the lock screen, which is now much more customizable than it was in iOS 15 and before. Users will be able to add animated wallpapers and custom interactive widgets to several swappable, custom lock screens. Lock screens will also be able to change based on the current Focus mode on the iPhone, building on another recent iOS feature.
The list of supported devices. (credit: Apple)
Further, the lock screen will get a new feature called Live Activities, which will let you see updates on currently unfolding events like sports games or the news without swiping past the lock screen to interact with apps or widgets.