Update alert: iPad and Mac bug fixes and new features
In a bit of an unusual move, Apple delayed the release of the latest versions of iPadOS and macOS. Apple devices generally get updated at the same time, but when it released patches for iOS and watchOS recently, the iPad and Mac machines were left out.
Earlier this week, iOS 14.7 brought with it several changes and security fixes for iPhones, like merging two cards and better time management. Tap or click here to see what’s included and why you should update.
So, what is included in the iPadOS update? Several features released with iOS are also present, while macOS is more focused on tweaking security flaws. Here’s what you need to know about the latest updates.
Here’s the backstory
It is unusual for patches to be separated over a couple of days, but there has been no explanation for the delay. The most likely scenario is that Apple wanted to fix a few last minutes issues, which could have affected the rollout. The company has been quiet on the delay, so it couldn’t have been that serious.
Just as with iOS 14.7, the latest iPadOS version also adds the ability to merge two cards and share one co-owned account. Here are some new features to look forward to:
- Home app adds the ability to manage timers on HomePod
- Podcast library allows you to choose to see all shows or only followed shows
- Share Playlist menu option missing in Apple Music
The update also fixes these flaws:
- Dolby Atmos and Apple Music lossless audio playback may unexpectedly stop
- Braille displays could show invalid information while composing Mail messages
- Audio may skip when using USB-C to 3.5 mm headphone jack adapters with iPad
Here’s what changed in macOS
There isn’t a lot to the update for macOS, bringing the latest version to 11.5. The bulk of the update is targeted towards security and bug fixes:
- Podcasts Library tab allows you to choose to see all shows or only followed shows
- Music may not update play count and last played date in your library
- Smart cards may not work when logging into Mac computers with the M1 chip
- Security updates patching several issues in the AMD kernel, AppKit, CoreServices and IOKit
How to update your macOS:
It is recommended that you download the latest version of macOS. Not just now, but whenever an update is available. Here’s how:
- From the Apple menu in the corner of your screen, choose System Preferences.
- Click Software Update.
- Click Update Now or Upgrade Now.
How to update your iPad:
- Open the Settings app and choose General.
- Click Software Update.
- If an update is available, download and install it. If not, your device may have automatically updated already.
Keep reading
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Tags: Apple, Apple iPad, Apple Mac, Apple Music, bug fixes, Dolby Atmos, features, preferences, security, security fixes, software update, update, upgrades
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