What's new in iOS, macOS and more

December 18, 2021

Apple rolled out a variety of updates this week, adding new features to devices including iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch and Apple TV.

Our lead stories tell you what to look for -- and what not to -- after you update all your gear. (We've also got some how-tos that will show you how to set up key features.)

Time to get downloading if you haven't already ...

— Lewis Wallace, managing editor

P.S. Once you're done with all that updating, why not kick back and watch some Apple TV+? You can finally take in the full seasons of Swagger (highly recommended) and The Shrink Next Door (OK, maybe not). Plus, new sci-fi movie Swan Song sounds like a stunner.

News and opinion

iPhone users can now upgrade to iOS 15.2. The update adds a cheaper Apple Music option, plus there’s a new App Privacy Report, and parents will be alerted if their children send or receive nudes. iPadOS 15.2 is also available with these same updates. And don't forget watchOS 8.3.

Plus, more software updates:

Camera updates could once again be the main reason to upgrade in 2022.

The world’s most lovable soccer coach is back like you’ve never seen him before. Luckily, Ted’s team members — voiced by the series’ original actors — come together to find his missing facial hair.

The update lets you build iOS and iPadOS apps using nothing but your iPad for the first time. Plus, after you finish building, you can upload directly to the App Store.

The eerie sci-fi thriller follows a group of employees who get their work memories surgically severed from their personal ones. (Maybe this could stop Apple leaks!)

Plus, more Apple TV+ news:

How-tos

The tvOS 15.2 update adds a bunch of great screen savers to Apple TV, including three from Scotland’s picturesque Isle of Skye and Loch Moidart, and another six from Iceland. And you can enjoy them all on Mac.

Thanks to a new feature in iOS 15.2, you can designate legacy contacts so your loved ones can gain access to data on your iPhone or iPad after your death -- without your passcode.

You no longer need a Mac or PC to get into a device after forgetting your passcode — so long as you remember your Apple ID and password.

Deals

AirPods make great gifts ... especially when they’re nearly half off. You can get AirPods 2 for less than $90. That’s as low as they’ve ever been. And there are deals on every type of Apple’s signature earbuds with significant savings.

This discounted Setapp subscription gives you access to killer Mac apps that will boost your productivity and make your computing more meaningful. It really is “the Netflix of Mac apps,” and this is your last chance to save.

This band is made for medical workers, but it will look (and feel) great on anyone's wrist.

The Omnia Q5 5-in-1 Wireless Charging Station is one of the first wireless charging stations that works for five devices at the same time.

Reviews

Just before the end of the year, Apple TV+ has one more prestige item to push. Mahershala Ali's strong performance makes this brainy sci-fi flick a must-stream.

Plus, more Apple TV+ reviews and recaps:

I have two original iPhones in my possession. One sits in a junk drawer, untouched and unloved for many years. The other has been carefully disassembled and the parts arranged in a handsome black frame that hangs on my office wall.

With Home Widget, it’s now possible to control your HomeKit accessories directly from your iPhone’s Home screen.

The sleek “open” case is super-cool and the buds’ sound is vibrant, but some earbuds just aren’t for everyone.

Setups

If you really want your setup to sing, you're going to need some fancy wallpaper. Here's where to get some.

If you look up “11.11” in the Slang Dictionary, it says, “If it’s 11:11, make a wish! Some people believe 11:11 is a magic number or lucky time of day, good for making a wish ... or reaching cosmic enlightenment.” Well, if something’s enlightened, or at least en-whitened, it’s this Mac mini-based setup.