Apple gave developers their first look at the next big update for iOS 10 yesterday, and it packs a surprising number of new features.
The public will have to wait a few weeks (or months) to get their hands on the new goodies packed inside iOS 10.3, which brings improvements for AirPods, iPads and more.
Here are all the new additions coming soon to iOS devices near you.
All the new features in iOS 10.3
Apple ID profile
In iOS 10.3, the Settings app gains a new profile section that lets you access you Apple ID profile information. The page shows all the Apple devices you’ve used to sign in. It also displays the iPhone owner’s contact info, security settings, iCloud, App Store settings, payment information and more.
Find My AirPods
Keeping track of Apple’s tiny AirPods is now as easy as pulling up the Find My iPhone app. AirPod owners can use the new tool to make the earbuds blast a loud sound so they can hunt them down. The feature only works from the last iPhone or iPad that was connected to the AirPods. (Here’s more on the new Find My AirPods feature.)
iCloud calls for Verizon
iPhone subscribers on Verizon can now make and answer calls from any iCloud-connected device. Once enabled, Verizon customers can accept a call on their Macs, iPads, iPods or Apple Watches, even if their iPhone isn’t nearby. (The feature was already supported by AT&T, T-Mobile and Sprint.)
One-handed iPad keyboard
https://twitter.com/i/web/status/824004549564317702
Hidden among the new code, Apple secretly added a third keyboard option for iPad that makes it easier to type with one hand. The one-handed keyboard looks like an iPhone keyboard. You can move the keyboard around on the iPad like a picture-in-picture screen.
iCloud storage
You can now see how much iCloud storage you’re using by visiting the iCloud settings page. The new section gives users a graphical breakdown of how much storage is being used and by what type of files.
Podcasts widget
You can now add a widget for Podcasts to your Spotlight search screen.
CarPlay
Some small changes were made to the CarPlay user interface. Three icons on the left side now show the most recently used apps. The Maps app also displays EV charging stations.
Apple File System
iOS 10.3 switches iPhone and iPad users to the Apple File System, which provides stronger encryption and is optimized for NAND flash storage. (Find out more: Everything you need to know about the new Apple File System.)
Transition animation changes
Apple made a very tiny tweak to the transition animation between apps. Apps now have more rounded edges when they open and close.
Weather in Maps
iPhone owners with a 3D Touch device can hard-press on the new weather icon in the Maps app to view forecasts for a specific area.
