iOS 13.4 Beta 2 Includes These 3 New Features
Credit: EverythingApplePro
Apple today released the second beta version of its upcoming iOS and iPadOS 13.4 updates to registered developers, making a number of changes and tweaks to its mobile operating system.
The first beta added new Memoji stickers, universal apps and reintroduced iCloud Folder Sharing. And while the second beta seems a bit lighter on user-facing content, it still adds some significant new features to the mix. Continue reading to browse everything that’s new in iOS 13.4 beta 2.
CarKey Sharing
As we’ve previously covered, Apple is working on a so-called “CarKey” feature that could allow users to lock, unlock and start a car with their iPhone or Apple Watch. The feature, which was first hinted at last year, relies on NFC — the same tech that allows you to use Apple Pay.
The second iOS 13.4 beta reveals another clever feature attached to CarKey. Specifically, it looks like you’ll be able to actually send digital “keys” to other users via iMessage. Those keys will allow the recipients to unlock or start your car as long as they have permission to do so.
Those keys can be permanent or temporary. The former option will undoubtedly be useful for family members and close friends, while the latter option may come in handy for valet drivers or mechanics. All CarKey features will also be secured by Face ID or Touch ID, ensuring that only the intended recipient will be able to use it.
TV App Updates
As part of its continual shift toward Services, Apple has revamped certain download and streaming features in its TV app. The features seem focused on letting users exercise minute control over how the TV app uses cellular data.
For example, users can now opt to use cellular data for streaming or downloading TV content. When using Wi-Fi or cellular, TV users will also be able to select a “High Quality” or “Data Saver” mode, with the latter option limiting usage to 600MB per hour.
Users can also choose Fast Downloads or High Quality downloads for content. The former will download shows or movies faster but at a lower quality, while High Quality mode will take longer but offer better quality content — including support for HDR when available.
A New Mail Toolbar
The Mail toolbar in iOS 13 was objectively clunky and bug-ridden. But since then, Apple has been steadily improving it in point updates. Back in the first iOS 13.4 beta, Apple moved the delete button away from the reply button to prevent accidental message trashing.
In the second beta, Apple has made a few more significant changes. For one, the updated toolbar gets rid of the flag icon from the previous beta and introduces a new compose icon on the far-right. The reply icon has now been shifted over one spot.