In advance of the stable release, Apple has released the fourth developer beta of iOS 16.6 and iPadOS 16.6. The security aspect of the upgrade is highlighted by the verification of the iMessage Contact Key.
- According to MacRumors, the update creates the framework for the implementation of the iMessage Contact Key verification and is meant to enable owners of Apple devices to verify that they are texting the right people—the people they intend to text—and not an attacker who might have eavesdropped on the conversation or simply listened in on users' conversations.
- Those in danger of "extraordinary digital threats," such as journalists, government officials, and others, are the target audience for this function. Simply, having this feature would be advantageous for those who are being targeted by threat actors.
- Developers can switch on the ability to download the iOS 16 Developer Beta by going to Settings > Software Update > Beta Updates and registering to receive developer beta updates.
- The stable iOS 16.5.1 update from Apple, which includes significant security patches and is advised for all users, was also just published. Additionally, it fixes a flaw that can make using the Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter impossible.