Andrew O'Hara
After successfully launching iOS 15 earlier this week, Apple is out with the first betas of iOS 15.1. We take you hands on with the new features expected to launch with these new updates later this fall.
New feautres in iOS 15.1
With the first release following a major rollout, Apple typically restores features that it didn't finish in time. That is absolutely the case here with iOS 15.1.
As an example, after showing up in early betas of iOS 15, lossless audio has now returned to HomePod and HomePod mini. Apple's desktop speakers require their own version 15.1 update, but once updated, they will support both lossless audio as well as Dolby Atmos spatial audio.
This update also re-enables SharePlay. All of Apple's betas include support for this social framework that allows you to enjoy content together.
One new feature that we haven't seen before is verifiable COVID vaccination cards in Apple Wallet. Once added to Wallet, they can be used to verify vaccination status at supported locations including airports, concert venues, and more.
Only certain vaccination records are supported, however, and must support the SMART Health Cards specification. Without supporting SMART, vaccines cannot be verified and therefore can't be added to Wallet.
Coming later this fall
Apple has only just started testing iOS 15.1, as well as the other initial betas, so don't expect the public release to be imminent. Apple will likely release this update later this fall.
If you spot any other changes, be sure to share on Twitter with @Andrew_OSU and we'll update this piece with any additional findings.
William Gallagher
Bon Adamson
Wesley Hilliard
Marko Zivkovic
AppleInsider Staff
Malcolm Owen
4 Comments
Does anybody know if 14.x or 15 is on the new iPhones shipping now?
I will be a snark and mention I enjoyed the new “Feautres” this article identifies.
quick question for those that have been having the pleasure of the 15 second song cut out bug in IOS14: is it fixed in IOS15?
Is it possible to get a full guide to safari on iPadOS because unless I’m being stupid and missing something it’s the worst software apple have ever released. If I’m browsing in a subfolder of my favourites I have to tap three times to make the sidebar go away again in landscape. It’s horrible.