Apple launches iOS 14.4 and watchOS 7.3 today

In its announcement of Black History Month this morning, Apple confirmed that iOS 14.4 and watchOS 7.3 will be released later today.

watchOS 7.3 expands the ECG app on the Apple Watch Series 4 and newer to Japan, Mayotte, Thailand and the Philippines, while iOS 14.4 features notification on iPhone 12 models with non-original cameras. Both software updates also add support for a new “Unity” watch face based on the Pan-African flag and contain several bug fixes.

IOS 14.4 Release Candidate notes:

iOS 14.4 includes the following improvements for your ‌iPhone‌:
– Smaller QR codes can be recognized by the camera
– Option to classify the type of Bluetooth device in Settings for correct identification of headphones for audio notifications
– Notifications when the camera on your iPhone cannot be verified as a genuine new Apple camera on the iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max

This release also fixes the following problems:
– Image artifacts can appear in HDR photos taken with ‌iPhone 12 Pro‌
– The fitness widget may not display updated activity data
– Typing may take time and word suggestions may not appear on the keyboard
– The keyboard may not appear in the correct language in messages
– News stories from the News app on CarPlay may not resume after being paused for spoken instructions or Siri
– Enabling accessibility exchange control can prevent calls from being answered on the lock screen

watchOS 7.3 Release Candidate Notes:

watchOS 7.3 includes new features, improvements and bug fixes, including:
– Unity watch face – inspired by the colors of the Pan-African flag, shapes change throughout the day as you move, creating a unique dial for you
– Time to walk for Apple Fitness + subscribers – an audio experience in the Workout app where guests share inspiring stories as you walk
– ECG app on Apple Watch Series 4 or later in Japan, Mayotte, Philippines and Thailand
– Irregular heart rate notifications in Japan, Mayotte, Philippines, Taiwan and Thailand
– Fixed an issue where the Control Center and Notification Center may stop responding when Zoom is enabled

IPadOS 14.4 is due to be released today. Apple typically releases software updates around 10 am Pacific time / 1 pm Eastern time.