Release Candidate of iOS 16.3, iPadOS 16.3, macOS Ventura 13.2

Apple has issued release candidate builds for iOS 16.3, iPadOS 16.3, and macOS Ventura 13.2, after announcing today that the final versions of those system software releases will be available next week.

Release Candidates typically mark the end of development of a software release, and, absent any bugs or issues, often match the final version issued to the general public.

No major new features are expected in iOS 16.3, iPadOS 16.3, and macOS Monterey 13.2, making them primarily focused on bug fixes and other small enhancements. The leading feature listed in the release notes for iOS 16.3 is a wallpaper for celebrating Black History Month, along with support for Security Keys for Apple ID. Full release notes are available below.

Those in the beta testing programs can find iOS 16.3 RC and iPadOS 16.3 RC available to download now from Settings > General > Software Update, and macOS Ventura 13.2 RC in System Settings > General > Software Update.

iOS 16.3 Release Notes

This update includes the following enhancements and bug fixes:

– New Unity wallpaper honors Black history and culture in celebration of Black History Month
– Security Keys for Apple ID allow users to strengthen the security of their account by requiring a physical security key as part of the two factor authentication sign in process on new devices
– Support for HomePod (2nd generation)
– Emergency SOS calls now require holding the side button with the up or down volume button and then releasing in order to prevent inadvertent emergency calls
– Fixes an issue in Freeform where some drawing strokes created with Apple Pencil or your finger may not appear on shared boards
– Addresses an issue where the wallpaper may appear black on the Lock Screen
– Fixes an issue where horizontal lines may temporarily appear while waking up iPhone 14 Pro Max
– Fixes an issue where the Home Lock Screen widget does not accurately display Home app status
– Addresses an issue where Siri may not respond properly to music requests
– Resolves issues where Siri requests in CarPlay may not be understood correctly

MacOS Ventura 13.2 Release Notes

This update introduces Security Keys for Apple ID, and includes other enhancements and bug fixes for your Mac.
– Security Keys for Apple ID allow users to strengthen the security of their account by requiring a physical security key to sign in
– Fixes an issue in Freeform where some drawing strokes created with Apple Pencil or your finger may not appear on shared boards
– Fixes an issue where VoiceOver may stop offering audio feedback while you are typing
Some features may not be available for all regions, or on all Apple devices. For detailed information about the security content of this update, please visit: https://support.apple.com/kb/HT201222

The latest stable versions of system software are currently iOS 16.2 for iPhone, iPadOS 16.2 for iPad, macOS Ventura 13.1 for Mac, and MacOS Big Sur 11.7.2 and MacOS Monterey 12.6.2 for Macs running older releases of system software.