Solved Face ID Doesn't Work with Masks - What's New on iOS 14.5?

On February 1st, 2021, Apple released the first developer beta of iOS 14.5 for developers to test. It contains some very exciting updates. For example, iPhone can be unlocked through the Apple Watch when Face ID doesn't work with mask on; dual-SIM 5G standby function will be soon supported globally, an so on. Now let's check it out what's new features on iOS 14.5 and how to get the beta update. 

What's New on iOS 14.5?

Unlock iPhone with Apple Watch

It can't be deny that Face ID has improved the unlocking experience on iPhone, but the constant mask-wearing of COVID-19, it doesn't work when you are wearing a mask. With iOS 14.5 and watchOS 7.4, Apple is creatively making your Apple Watch as the key to unlock your iPhone. That means you do not have to take off your mask or enter a passcode to unlock you iPhone when this feature is enabled. Navigate to "Settings > Face ID & Passcode", and enable the Unlock with Apple Watch toggle to activate this function. Read on this post to learn more Apple Watch tips and tricks.

Dual-SIM 5G Support

Since the launch of iPhone 12 models, it has been unable to support Dual-SIM 5G standby function (a physical SIM card and an eSIM). Except for Mainland, China, iPhone 12 models cannot be in dual-SIM 5G mode before iOS14.5. The new feature on iPhone 12 allows for two lines of service on a single iPhone, in which iPhone 12 users can get 5G speeds on both lines. 

App Tracking Transparency

iOS 14.5 will lay the foundation for the app tracking transparency feature that Apple has long promoted. In short, you iPhone will now ask the app to request permission whenever they want to track activity outside the app (for example across other apps or websites). Most users are unware that there are many apps that do this. But with this beta version, you should see more apps start to comply with Apple's rule, presenting a popup that lets you agree or disagree ad tracking. Start from iOS 14.5, you can check the apps you have allowed to track in "Settings > Privacy > Tracking", which allows you to change your preferences any time.

AirPlay 2 for Fitness+

One of the biggest drawbacks of Apple's new fitness+ subscription service is that you can only use it on iPhone, iPad or Apple TV. You cannot use it on a Mac or any other smart TV. However, it is a huge improvement in iOS 14.5, workouts can be displayed on a bigger screen with this feature. But unfortunately, Apple Watch indicators cannot be displayed on the TV, which can only be seen through the iPhone or iPad.

Other Updates

• Game controller support. Now you iPhone and iPad can support the latest Xbox and Playstation game controllers.
• Siri Update. You can now ask Siri to call emergency services with a "Hey Siri, call emergency" command/
• Podcasts app. Each show in Podcasts app is now presented in a similar style of Apple Music. And there even has an extra "Show All" button to display a more complete list of shows.
• Reminders app.  It has now added an option to sort lists in Reminders by Due Date, Creation Date, Priority, or Title. In addition, there is an option to print a Reminder list.
• News app. The app has now added a brand new search function. Plus, the News+ section has also been improved, adding a new "For You" service.

How to Get iOS 14.5 Beta Update?

Developers can visit developer.apple.com/download on the device that wished to run Beta, and download the developer Beta configuration file. For general user, you can join in the public Beta by visiting beta.apple.com using the device that wished to run Beta. After that, you can head to "Settings > General > Profile" to enable the profile. Then head to "Settings > General > Software Updates" to download the latest Beta release. If you want to learn more iOS 14 new features, you can check out this link.

Note: Apple suggests you do not run any Beta version on your critical devices. If you insist on, don't forget to back up your iPhone first.