Now that Apple has released the second iOS 14.4 developer beta, we download to see what changes Apple has in store 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 everything has changed.
The most visible change is the continuous improvement in the transfer experience of the updated Mini HomePod. This updated experience features the ultra-broadband U1 chip found in the HomePod mini, as well as recent iPhones.
Transfer to HomePod mini
This enhanced experience has auditory, physical and visual cues to signal the transfer of audio from the phone to the mini HomePod and vice versa. This feature was present in the first beta, but it is much smoother in the beta compared to the initial buggy implementation. It was so problematic that it was difficult to perform the procedure reliably and iPhones used to crash on the processor – or even recognize the HomePod mini.
When returning audio to iPhone from the HomePod mini, the “transfer to iPhone” button now works correctly, whereas before it was just a placeholder.
New home screen in Find My app
The other notable change is in the Find My app. After upgrading to the second beta of iOS 14.4, when you start Find My, a new home 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 Find My Network, which helps you find 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 headphones, announced at CES 2021.
All of this seems to be paving the way for AirTags, which are expected to arrive in the near future. Recently, a new URL scheme was discovered that would launch a new panel in the Find My app for use with compatible accessories. This is also compatible with iOS 14.3.