A new version of iOS 15.4 is now up for testing

Feb 22, 2022 23:14 GMT  ·  By

Apple has just released a new iOS 15.4 beta build, as the company continues the work on the next stable version of the operating system.

iOS 15.4 beta is therefore available for both developers and public users, and it can be downloaded right now on all supported iPhones.

As for what’s new, the biggest change is without a doubt the support for unlocking iPhones with Face ID even when wearing a mask.

While at first glance this feature arrives a little bit too later, there’s no doubt it still comes in handy, especially as using Face ID with a mask is quite a struggle.

Apple has tried various approaches to make the whole thing more convenient, including a dedicated Apple Watch feature to unlock the iPhone when the smartwatch is on the wrist. However, users without an Apple Watch are still prompted to unlock the iPhone using a passcode every time they wear a mask, so without a doubt, this is one of the most anticipated releases in a long time.

Full launch next month

Apple is expected to release the iOS 15.4 update to production iPhones at some point in March, but for now, no ETA is available.

It’s pretty clear that Apple wants to make sure everything is running properly, especially because the new face mask unlocking system will probably be tested by everybody out there to see if it can be abused in any way.

For now, users can download the new beta build on their devices right now, but keep in mind there’s a chance it comes with various bugs and issues. This is the purpose of beta builds anyway, as they give users the chance to try out new improvements early and then help Apple polish the overall experience before the public rollout starts.