Now that Apple has released the second beta developer of iOS 14.4, we downloaded it to see what changes Apple envisages when the update is finally released to the public.
Despite the long gap between the first beta of iOS 14.4 and the second, not much has changed.
The most visible change is continued improvements to the updated HomePod mini-handoff experience. This updated experience is based on the U1 ultra wideband chip found in the HomePod mini as well as recent iPhones.
Handover to HomePod mini
This enhanced experience has audio, physical, and visual cues to transfer your audio from your phone to your HomePod mini and back again. This feature was present in the first beta, but it is much smoother in the beta compared to the initial very faulty implementation. It was so buggy that it was difficult to perform the procedure reliably, and iPhones would often freeze in the processor – or not recognize the HomePod mini.
When you restore audio from your HomePod mini to your iPhone, the “transfer to iPhone” button now works properly, having previously been merely a placeholder.
New splash screen in the Find My app
The other notable change is in the Find My app. Following the update to the second beta of iOS 14.4, at the launch of Find My a new splash screen appears explaining the new features of the app.
New features include support for third-party accessories, enhanced notifications for your friends and family, and the Find My Network that helps you locate lost items even when you’re not connected to Wi-Fi.
Belkin is the first to support the Find My app with the upcoming SoundForm Freedom True Wireless earbuds announced at CES 2021.
It all seems to be paving the way for AirTags which is expected to arrive in the near future. Recently, a new URL scheme was unveiled that will launch a new panel in the Find My app to use with compatible accessories. However, it is also supported in iOS 14.3.