Apple has started distributing its first beta versions of iOS 16.4 for iPhones and iPadOS 16.4 for iPads to developers. The new versions bring several big changes, including push notifications for web apps, an updated Apple Podcasts app, a new Apple HomeKit architecture, and more.
Web apps now support push notifications, which are configurable once you add a page to your home screen using the web push API. Previously, web apps could only be added via the native Safari browser. As of iOS 16.4 and iPadOS 16.4, web apps are also possible via third-party browsers with notification support.
Apple’s Podcasts app is getting a new tab called Channels in the library for all subscriptions. The CarPlay app brings a new browse section to help continue podcasts on the go. Apple Podcasts also gets an Up Next queue that shows unfinished episodes.
HomeKit in iOS 16.4 and iPadOS 16.4 gets a new system architecture. This is intended to make HomeKit accessories more reliable and easier to communicate with Apple devices. Additionally, the Home app now supports both automatic and manual software updates for Matter accessories.
In addition, Apple has included a total of 31 new emojis in iOS 16.4 and iPadOS 16.4. You can also enable developer betas directly from the software update menu without installing a developer profile from the Developer Center.
