Download Apple iOS 16.5 Stable Update: What’s New

The iOS 16 update introduces a plethora of new features and enhancements to iPhones, providing users with increased convenience and security. Apple rolls out the iOS 16 update in three distinct versions: Stable, Beta, and Developer Beta. While the Beta and Developer Beta versions are released weekly, the Stable version is launched once all bugs and issues from the Beta versions have been resolved.

It’s crucial to comprehend the differences between the Stable, Beta, and Developer Beta versions of the update before diving in. Each stage offers varying degrees of stability, features, and accessibility. Let’s briefly examine these three stages to help you determine the most suitable iOS 16 version for your needs.

What is iOS 16 update?

The iOS 16 update is a significant upgrade for Apple’s mobile devices, like iPhones. It brings new features, improvements, and better security for users. The update goes through three stages: Developer Beta, Public Beta, and Stable Release allowing for testing and feedback before it’s widely available.

• iOS 16 Developer Beta: The Developer Beta is the first phase of this update, targeting app developers for early access to features and APIs. It enables developers to test and adjust their applications before public release. However, this version may contain bugs and is not recommended for daily use on your primary device.
• iOS 16 Public Beta: The public beta phase follows the developer beta and is open to anyone who wants to try new features before the official release. Although it is more stable than the developer beta, it may have some bugs and issues. By participating in this update, users can provide feedback to help Apple resolve any outstanding issues before a stable release.
• iOS 16 Stable Release: The final phase, the stable release, provides a polished and bug-free experience with all new features fully functional. This version is the most secure and reliable, and it is most users who install this update on their devices.

Note: If you’re interested in trying the Public Beta version, you’ll need to sign up for the Apple Beta Software Program and follow the provided instructions to download and install the beta profile on your device.

Stable iOS 16.5 Update

On May 18, 2023, Apple released the stable iOS 16.5 update with build number 20F66, which shows the latest iOS update. This final stable update has been rolled out to all users around the world. The update size is significantly larger at 800.9MB, which reflects the overall tweaks and improvements made. The modem firmware remains consistent with the previous beta at 1.70.02.

Build Name	iOS 16.5
Build Number	20F66
Modem Firmware	1.70.02
Update Size	800.9 MB
Release Date	18th May 2023
Geekbench Scores	Single-core: 2614 Multi-core: 6042
Features	1) New Sports Tab in Apple News 2) New “Pride Celebration” wallpaper
Fixes	1) Fixes Spotlight’s unresponsive 2) CarPlay Podcasts not load content

iOS 16.5 RC 2 Update

On 15th May 2023, Apple released iOS 16.5 RC 2 with build number 20F66, representing the latest improvements to the iOS operating system. This final beta update was rolled out to both developers and public beta testers. For iPhone 14 Pro Max users, the size of the update is a relatively small 234.1 MB, reflecting the minor adjustments and refinements introduced. The modem firmware remains unchanged at 1.70.02.

Despite no major changes being found in this update, Emergency SOS via satellite has now been enabled on the iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, and 14 Pro Max models for users in Australia and New Zealand. This feature was eagerly anticipated and is sure to enhance the safety functionality of these devices.

The previous version, iOS 16.5 RC, had been reported by users to have several Hitting issues, which have likely been addressed in this update. However, with the new iOS 16.5 RC 2, users have reported a couple of bugs. Notifications appear to be delayed and laggy, and the Health app crashes when adding medications. These issues are now known and it’s expected that Apple will address them in future updates.

Build Name	iOS 16.5 RC 2
Build Number	20F66
Modem Firmware	1.70.02
Update Size	234.1 MB (on iPhone 14 Pro Max)
Release Date	15th May 2023
Geekbench Scores	Single-core: 2514 Multi-core: 6142
Features	Emergency SOS via satellite has been enabled for Australia and New Zealand.
Fixes	Fixed Camera capture auto HDR Photos
Bugs	Notifications appear to be delayed and laggy, and the Health app crashes.

iOS 16.5 RC Update

On 10th May 2023, Apple released iOS 16.5 RC (Release Candidate) with build number 20F65, which brought a series of improvements and new features to the iOS operating system. This polished version of the update comes with modem firmware 1.70.02. For iPhone 14 Pro Max users, the size of the update is a substantial 5.47 GB, which will give them a full experience of the latest additions and refinements. These include new wallpapers and animations, an updated search tab in the Apple Sports app, as well as critical bug fixes for Spotlight and Screen Time settings.

Build Name	iOS 16.5 RC
Build Number	20F65
Modem Firmware	1.70.02
Update Size	5.47 GB (on iPhone 14 Pro Max)
Release Date	10th May 2023
Geekbench Scores	Single-core: 2517 Multi-core: 6065
Features	1) Added Pride Celebration Wallpaper section with new wallpapers 2) Introduced new animations and dark mode for select wallpapers 3) Updated the search tab in the Apple Sports app for enhanced usability
Fixes	Resolved an issue causing Spotlight to become unresponsive Addressed a problem where Screen Time Settings might reset or fail to sync across all devices
Bugs	Identified an issue where Podcasts in CarPlay may not load content properly

iOS 16.5 Developer Beta 4 Update

On 3rd May 2023, Apple introduced iOS 16.5 Developer Beta 4 with build number 20F5059a, delivering a variety of refinements and additions to the mobile operating system. This latest release of the beta version sports a modem firmware of 1.70.02. For iPhone 14 Pro Max users, the update size weighs in at 403 MB, ensuring a seamless experience for developers as they delve into the most recent features and enhancements.

Build Name	iOS 16.5 Beta 4
Build Number	20F5059a
Modem Firmware	1.70.02
Update Size	403 MB (on iPhone 14 Pro Max)
Release Date	3rd May 2023
Geekbench Scores	Single-core: 2518 Multi-core: 6249
Features	1) Now Widgets are working properly (Pride Flag for LGBTQ+ community)
Bugs	Now Widgets are working properly Some security-related issues have been fixed

Security Response iOS 16.4.1 (a) Update

For the first time in its history, Apple has released a security patch with an alphanumeric label for all iPhones. The Security Response iOS 16.4.1 (a) update, which launched on May 1st, 2023, weighs in at 85.5 MB. Apple now offers incremental security updates to enhance device privacy and address security concerns. However, numerous iPhone users have encountered a significant error during the download process: “Unable to Verify Security Response.” This issue may be attributed to technical difficulties or regional restrictions.

😱 OMG! iOS 16.4.1 (a) failed verification because of My Internet 🛜 Connection. 😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/vAkZAHC6p4

— Rushirajsinh Jadeja (@techrush_) May 1, 2023

Build Name	iOS Security Response 16.4.1 (a)
Build Number	20E772520a
Modem Firmware	1.67.04
Update Size	85.8 MB (on iPhone 14 Pro Max)
Release Date	1st May 2023
Features	1) Security improvements between software updates
Bugs	Unable to Verify Security Response

How to fix the Unable to Verify Security Response iOS 16.4.1 (a) update?

Currently, the error message displayed during the iOS Update states “iOS Security Response 16.4.1 (a) failed verification because you are no longer connected to the Internet.” To resolve this issue, verify your internet connection, whether it’s through Wi-Fi or cellular data. In many cases, this error occurs outside the USA, suggesting a possible regional issue. Apple is expected to address this problem soon, allowing you to update your device promptly.

iOS 16.5 Developer Beta 3 Update

Apple recently released iOS 16.5 Developer Beta 3, a highly anticipated update designed to deliver new features and improvements to the iPhone ecosystem. Bearing build number 20F5050f, this update comes with a modem firmware update of 1.70.02. Released on 25th April 2023, this 619.7 MB update provides enhanced performance and stability for developers and users alike. When tested on Geekbench, it has a single-core score of 2508 and a multi-core score of 6168.

Build Name	iOS 16.5 Developer Beta 3
Build Number	20F5050f
Modem Firmware	1.70.02
Update Size	619.7 MB (on iPhone 14 Pro Max)
Release Date	25th April 2023
Geekbench Scores	Single-core: 2508 Multi-core: 6168
Notable Features	1) New “All Sports” navigation menu in the Apple News app 2) Combine navigation and Search tabs in the News app 3) Fixed bugs in Apple Home Accessories

iOS 16.5 Developer Beta 2 Update

On 12th April 2023, Apple released iOS 16.5 Developer Beta 2 with build number 20F5039e, bringing a range of enhancements and updates. This new iteration of the beta version comes with a modem firmware of 1.70.01. iPhone 14 Pro Max users can expect an update size of 565 MB, providing a smooth testing experience for developers as they explore the latest features and improvements.

Build Name	iOS 16.5 Developer Beta 2
Build Number	20F5039e
Modem Firmware	1.70.01
Update Size	565 MB (on iPhone 14 Pro Max)
Release Date	12th April 2023
Geekbench Scores	Single-core: 2522 Multi-core: 6308
Notable Features	1) Update download with <50% battery 2) AirPods firmware update pushed 3) Activity widgets in the Game Center app

iOS 16.4.1 Update

On April 7, 2023, Apple released the stable iOS 16.4.1 update, which featured build number 20E252 and offered a series of updates and enhancements for users to enjoy. The update includes modem firmware version 1.67.04 and is 298.5 MB in size for iPhone 14 Pro Max users, ensuring a seamless experience while exploring the latest features and improvements provided by the new release.

Build Name	iOS 16.4.1
Build Number	20E252
Modem Firmware	1.67.04
Update Size	298.5 MB (on iPhone 14 Pro Max)
Release Date	7th April 2023
Geekbench Scores	Single-core: 2523 Multi-core: 6152
Notable Features	1) New AirPods Update 2) Accidental Battery Life Test 3) Activity widgets in the Game Center app 4) Multiple New YouTube Features 5) Spotify Widget 6) Domino’s Pizza on CarPlay

iOS 16.5 Developer Beta 1 Update

On 29th March 2023, Apple launched iOS 16.5 Developer Beta 1, featuring build number 20F5028e and offering a variety of updates and enhancements for developers to explore. The update includes modem firmware version 1.70.00 and comes with a size of 5.46 GB for iPhone 14 Pro Max users, ensuring a comprehensive testing experience as they delve into the latest features and improvements provided by the new beta release.

Build Name	iOS 16.5 Developer Beta 1
Build Number	20F5028e
Modem Firmware	1.70.00
Update Size	5.46 GB (on iPhone 14 Pro Max)
Release Date	29th March 2023
Geekbench Scores	Single-core: 2523 Multi-core: 6355
Notable Features	1) Screen recording via Siri 2) Sports tab in Apple News 3) Apple Pay Later via Wallet 4) Shared admin in Apple home
Bugs	Lock screen notification bug

iOS 16 Features

iOS 16 comes with several notable features and improvements:

• Advanced-Data Protection: Apple introduces end-to-end encryption for enhanced data protection, initially available in the US, with plans for worldwide availability after the stable iOS 16 release. To enable this feature, go to Settings > iCloud > Toggle on Advanced Data Protection.

• Freeform App: Apple’s new Freeform app allows users to share and collaborate on projects with up to 99 friends. This infinite canvas app comes preinstalled on all Apple devices with the iOS 16.2 update.

• 5G Network: Apple enables 5G Network support for all regions where 5G is available.

• AirDrop Time Limit: A new option limits AirDrop availability to 10 minutes, after which it will no longer be public.

• Sleep and Medication Widgets: New sleep and meditation lock screen widgets help users track their sleep patterns and set medication schedules with reminders.
  • Past seven nights’ collection charts
  • More In-depth data for the previous night

Also, you can add a medication widget that was not added previously. With these tools, you can set a schedule and receive reminders for your medication.

• Show IP Address in Safari: Users can now easily show their IP address on trusted websites through Safari options, providing more control over data privacy.

• Physical Security Key: iOS 16.3 beta 1 introduces a Physical Security Key feature, adding an extra layer of security. To enable this, go to Settings > Apple Profile > Password & Security > tap Add Security Keys.

• Apple Music Sing Karaoke: Music enthusiasts can control vocals and sing along with their favorite artists. To use Apple Music Sing Karaoke:
  • Open the Apple Music App.
  • Browse or search for your favorite song.
  • Tap the “Lyrics” button at the bottom left of the screen.
  • The lyrics will appear on the screen, synchronized with the music. Sing along and enjoy your karaoke experience.

How to Download iOS 16 Update on iPhone

To download the iOS 16 update on your iPhone, follow these simple steps:

• Open the “Settings” app on your iPhone.
• Scroll down and tap “General”.
• Tap “Software Update”, Your iPhone will now check for available updates.
• If the iOS 16 update is available, you’ll see a description of the update along with the option to “Download and Install” Tap on it to begin the download process.
• Once the download is complete, you can choose to install the update immediately or schedule it for later.
• To install the update, tap “Install Now”. Your iPhone will restart, and the installation process will begin. This may take some time, so be patient.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the iOS 16 update offers a plethora of new features and improvements and revolutionizes the way you interact with your Apple device. From interactive widgets to enhanced privacy controls, a wealth of new experiences await you. Whether you’re a developer, an early adopter, or someone who prefers to wait for a stable release, iOS 16 has something new for everyone.