iOS 14.5: Release date, beta download and all the new features - CNET

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iOS 14.5 will get some new features compared to previous versions, pictured here.

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iOS 14 was first released in September 2020, ahead of the launch of the iPhone 12. New versions of the operating system have come out once a month since then, with new features and bug fixes. The latest version -- iOS 14.4 -- was released on Jan. 26. 

iOS 14.5 is likely going to arrive later this month; the developer beta version is available right now. The latest version of the OS will include new features that make it easier for you to unlock your phone while wearing a mask (so long as you also own an Apple Watch ($169 at Amazon)), and that require apps to ask for user permission before tracking data and activity. 

Here's everything we know about iOS 14.5 so far, including when it will be generally available to download, and what new features you can expect. 

Read more: iOS 14's best new iPhone features

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When is the iOS 14.5 release date?

The latest version of Apple's operating system, iOS 14.5, is now available as a developer beta. That means you have to have an Apple Developer account to test it out, and that it may contain some bugs, as Apple is still working on it before its final release. 

Apple doesn't publicly announce when it will release a new version of iOS, but we can follow some clues. Since the developer beta for iOS 14.5 became available on Feb. 1, and releases come out roughly once a month, we can expect to see the final version of iOS 14.5 sometime in February. 

Will there be an iOS 14.5 public beta I can download?

Apple typically releases a public beta for the latest version of iOS shortly after the developer beta. That wasn't the case with iOS 14.5, however. It's possible that we could see a public beta next week, or not at all, according to MacWorld. And even if one does become available, you should note that betas tend to be buggy: It's best not to download it on your primary phone. 

Óscar Gutiérrez/CNET

How do I download iOS 14.5 when it's generally available? 

When it's released, you should get a prompt telling you that iOS 14.5 is now available and asking if you'd like to download it. Or you can do the following: 

1. Open the Settings app.

2. Select General. 

3. Tap Software Update. 

Your device will connect to Apple's servers and prompt you to download and install the update. Follow the prompts to complete the installation. When your device reboots, it will be running iOS 14.5. (Check out our full instructions on preparing your phone and downloading iOS 14 here.)

What devices are compatible with iOS 14.5?

iOS 14.5 will be compatible with all the same devices as iOS 14. Generally, these include the iPhone 6S ($220 at eBay) all the way up through the iPhone 12, along with the iPhone SE ($85 at Back Market) and the iPod Touch ($135 at Amazon) (seventh-gen). For the full list of devices compatible with iOS 14, click here. 

What new features will iOS 14.5 include?

The latest version of iOS is going to bring several useful new features, including: 

Use Face ID on your Apple Watch to unlock your iPhone -- even when wearing a mask

Apple Watch owners will be able to opt into a feature that lets you use Face ID to unlock your iPhone when your Watch is on and unlocked, even if your face is obscured by a mask. The Watch will provide haptic feedback letting you know your iPhone has been unlocked. 

If you have an Apple Watch, iOS 14.5 will let you use it to more easily unlock your iPhone while wearing a mask.

Aleksandar Georgiev/Getty Images

Stream Fitness Plus workouts with AirPlay 

iOS 14.5 and WatchOS 7.4 will let Apple Fitness Plus users stream workouts directly to AirPlay 2-compatible TVs and devices.

App tracking transparency 

iOS 14.5 includes privacy changes that will require apps to ask for user permission before tracking data and activity. This builds on a change released in iOS 14.3, which lets you see what data apps collect before you hit download. 

Dual-SIM 5G global support

iPhone 12 users now have dual SIM support globally, which means you can take advantage of the phone's physical SIM slot and digital eSIM to have two lines of service on the same phone. This support was previously only available in mainland China. 

Siri updates

Siri now has the ability to call 911 for you, with a prompt of, "Hey Siri, call emergency." You'll see a three-second countdown, giving you the option to cancel the request. 

Console controller support

With the update, Apple is adding iOS and iPadOS support for PS5 and Xbox Series X controllers, so you can play games on your phone or tablet. 

You'll also find some design changes to the Podcasts, News and Reminders apps. 

For more, check out some of the best hidden iPhone features we've found in iOS 14. And before you make any OS updates, make sure your iPhone and iPad are ready to do so. 

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February 05, 2021 at 12:00AM
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iOS 14.5: Release date, beta download and all the new features - CNET

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