Update to iOS 14.4.2 now to fix a security issue

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This is one iOS update you shouldn't be putting off. If iOS 14.4.2 is rolling out to you know, make sure to download it. The update fixes a security issue Apple says might have already been exploited in the wild. The update also applies to iPadOS, so if you have an iPad, update that, too. Also, this is your regular reminder to stay away from questionable websites and update your phone.

According to the company, the security flaw allowed for universal cross-site scripting. The Verge explained it as a malicious site or script that could gain access to information from other pages you have open.

Apple iOS 14.5 has more gender-inclusive emojis

New iOS updates mean more emojis. This time, the 217 new emojis coming will include more gender-inclusive symbols. There will be options for both women and men emojis to sport beards. The update will also let you choose the skin tone for the couples' emoji.

There are three new smiley options, including the Exhaling Face, Face With Spiral Eyes, and Face in Clouds. For those who want to let others know they got vaccinated for COVID-19, Apple updated the Syringe emoji to take out the blood. There's also a new Heart on Fire and Mending Heart emoji, which sports a bandage on it. 

And for branding purposes, Apple updated the Headphone emoji to make it look like its new AirPod Max headphones.

Source: Emojipedia

iOS 14.5 to allow Apple Watch owners to unlock iPhones even with face masks on

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Apple iPhone users—especially those whose unit has no other biometric security option other than Face ID—have been left to key in their passcode when they open their devices while wearing masks. While it's a more tedious problem than anything else, it is still an inconvenience. Apple has a provisional solution coming out. The new iOS 14.5 beta update will let Apple iPhone users who also have an Apple Watch quickly authenticate and unlock their phones with the wearable.

This feature is already available on the Mac, but now iPhone users will get access to the function, too. It will require that you have wrist detection enabled on your Apple Watch because you need an unlocked Apple Watch nearby, "on your wrist, unlocked, and protected by a passcode."

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iOS users can interact with Alexa via text

Amazon has just added a new feature for iOS users. Its assistant Alexa can now respond to commands via text on the platform. With this option, you can opt to text commands to Alexa instead of speaking to it. The feature is still in a "public preview," so expect to run into bugs and issues. If you do want to test it out, you can head to the Alexa app on iOS. When you tap the Alexa button in the app, it will bring up a keyboard icon that will open a chat window.

Source: Engadget