iOS 14.5 and iPadOS 14.5 beta 7 now available to developers

  • 10 April 2021
View Count: 1076

Apple has released iOS 14.5 beta 7 to developers, coming one week after the release of beta 6. iOS 14.5 packs a variety of new features including the ability to unlock your iPhone using Apple Watch and new Siri voices.

Update: Now rolling out to public beta users as well.

Today’s new release of iOS 14.5 beta 7 is available to developers and public beta users via an over-the-air update in the Settings app. As usual, if the update does not immediately appear for download, keep checking, as it sometimes takes a few minutes to roll out to all registered developers. The build number for today’s release is 18E5198a.

iOS 14.5 and watchOS 7.4 include a major change to the integration between iPhone and Apple Watch. For the first time, your Apple Watch will now unlock your iPhone when you’re wearing a face covering. Learn more about that in our full hands-on right here.

More new features in iOS 14.5:

  • New “Items” tab in the Find My app for tracking AirTags and other third-party accessories
  • iOS 14.5 code suggests support for Apple Card Family Sharing, but it’s unclear if this feature will make the cut for the final release
  • Horizontal boot screen on the iPad
  • Updates to the Music app, including swipe gestures, a lyrics sharing feature, and more
  • AirPlay 2 support for Fitness+ workouts
  • Waze-like features in Apple Maps and groundwork for business busy data
  • PS5 / Xbox Series X controller support
  • iOS 14.5: Siri no longer defaults to a female voice, two new choices added

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