Apple Releases iOS, iPadOS, and tvOS 16.1
October 24, 2022 at 12:51 p.m.
Today is a big day for households equipped with the Apple ecosystem. Virtually every Apple product is getting a software update, including the Mac and Apple Watch.
Although one can install these updates immediately, it’s best to wait for a few reasons. First, Apple’s servers typically get hit hard shortly after updates are released. Hardcore Apple fanatics will enthusiastically install the latest software, regardless of defects. It’s a good thing, as all software releases need additional testing, but this means the update will download slower, and post-update optimization and iCloud syncing will also experience latency.
Despite all of the QAT and beta testing, Apple’s updates tend to have some defects. That’s the other reason you should postpone installing version 16.1. There will likely be a 16.1.1 release in a few weeks to fix the bugs in iOS/iPadOS/tvOS 16.1. If you value reliability and software quality, you may want to put off the update until Apple releases 16.1.1.
Apple’s latest update brings some new features and fixes some defects. The most notable addition is the new iCloud Shared Photo Library, which enables up to 5 family members to curate a photo album collectively. iOS, iPadOS, and tvOS all gain the ability to share photos using this new technology. With the release, Fitness+ also gains a presence on the iPhone and Apple TV.
The iPad gains the most features of all the devices with the 16.1 release. After 12 years, the iPad will finally attain Apple’s first-party Weather app. Stage Manager, an advanced new way to multitask on iPadOS, finally makes its way into 16.1. Also, Apple added the ability to run desktop-class apps in iPadOS.
Before you get too excited, Apple’s developer release notes reveal problems and known issues with iOS 16.1 across all supported devices. For example, there are known issues around pairing a Matter accessory with iOS 16.1. A specific memory management bug could result in app crashes if developers don’t create updates to work around Apple’s defect. It’s all the more reason to wait a little while before upgrading to iOS/iPadOS/tvOS.
Macs and Apple Watches are also getting attention today, with the release of macOS 13 Ventura and WatchOS 9.1. It’s actually a more important day for the Mac than the iPhone. The Mac gets an entirely new operating system, but it’s not as noteworthy since many more people own iPhones.
You can download and install the update immediately; however, as mentioned before, you may wish to put this off until developers have a chance to update their apps or Apple releases 16.1.1. According to Apple’s release notes, this new version has the potential to crash apps. If you prefer a stable user experience, wait a few weeks before installing the updates.
Since all of the features are interrelated, installing the updates across your devices on the same day is best. It’s not mandatory, but it will make life easier. For example, if you update your iPhone and Apple TV to 16.1, you’ll be able to take advantage of Fitness+ and the iCloud Shared Photo Library on both devices.
After installing iOS 16.1 or iPadOS 16.1, expect to see shortened battery life on your device. It’s a result of post-update optimization. iOS and iPadOS must process information for Siri requests and other intelligent features. Also, these releases typically require some iCloud synchronization. Expect to see diminished battery life for a few days after the release. If you’re running an older iPhone, you may want to try calibrating the battery for better meter accuracy and to avoid unexpected shutdowns.
Apple TV owners may experience a sluggish UI or app launching latency after installing tvOS 16.1. This behavior is expected, and your Apple TV should return to normal in a few days.