Apple released the first preview of iOS 15.5, iPadOS 15.5, tvOS 15.5, watchOS 8.6 and macOS 12.4 for developers on Tuesday evening. Below we summarize all the new features in the first preview of iOS 15.5.
Apple today distributed the first betas of iOS 15.5 and iPadOS 15.5 to developers. The new updates are not as feature-rich as the previous ones and focus mainly on changes under the hood. But there are also a few smaller improvements - here we go.
"Apple Classical" app
There are hints about the upcoming "Apple Classical" app that Apple is developing to complement Apple Music, suggesting that the standalone app could launch soon. The Music app's code says "Open in Apple Classical" and "Open this in the new classical music app." However, the Classical app itself has not been integrated yet. As a reminder, Apple acquired classical music streaming service Primephonic in August 2021 and announced that it would develop a new classical experience for Apple Music. Apple is planning a new, standalone classical music app that will combine Primephonic's classical music interface and specializations with Apple Music and features like Lossless and Spatial Audio.
Universal Control
According to Apple's macOS release notes Universal Control in the new updates for iPadOS 15.5 and macOS Monterey 12.4 is not compatible with devices running macOS 12.3 or iPadOS 15.4. Apple therefore recommends that users update all their Universal Control devices to the new betas.
SportsKit updates
Apple continues to expand its SportsKit support in preparation for the launch of Friday Night Baseball. There are mentions of TV apps reporting scores for various baseball innings.
iTunes Pass rebranding
Apple is apparently working on rebranding the “iTunes Pass” to Wallet and renaming it “Apple Balance”. References to Apple Balance were found by 9to5Mac revealed. There used to be an option to add an "iTunes Pass" to the Wallet app, which contains the funds associated with your Apple ID. Apple appears to have removed the option to add an iTunes Pass in the United States, but it is still there in other countries. It's possible that the Wallet app will include a whole new Apple Credit option in the future. (Photo by DenPhoto / Bigstockphoto)
