In the wake of last week’s public release of iOS 10.2, Apple on Tuesday stopped signing code for iOS 10.1 and iOS 10.1.1. The means users can no longer downgrade to the older versions of the iOS 10 mobile operating system.
This is a standard operating procedure for Apple, as the Cupertino firm routinely ceases signing cods for previous versions of older operating system versions, in order to keep users protected by updates that fix possible bugs and security holes. The process also ensures a consistent experience for users of all devices. Apple also stopped signing for tvOS 10.0.1 on Tuesday following last week’s public release of tvOS 10.1.
Apple released iOS 10.2 to the public on Monday of last week. iOS 10.2 includes a number of new features and improvements to Apple’s mobile operating system. New features include a “TV” app, which acts as a TV guide that simplifies the viewing experience on iOS devices, and on the fourth-generation Apple TV. (Via tvOS 10.1, which was also released to the public today.) The app helps television and movie viewers discover new content to watch on their devices.
In addition to the TV App, Apple has also debuted the much-anticipated Single Sign-on feature, which allows users of iOS devices to sign in once using their cable or satellite credentials, and view content in various apps offered by content suppliers. Single Sign-On is available for DIRECTV, Dish, GTA, GVTC Communications, Hawaiian Telcom, Hotwire, MetroCast, Service Electric Cablevision, and Sling TV. Single Sign-on is also available on fourth-generation Apple TV’s running tvOS 10.1.
iOS 10.2 also includes over one hundred new emoji, including several professional emoji, representing both male and female genders. Several emoji have also been redesigned, making them look a bit more realistic.
Also included in the update are new wallpapers, new sorting options and design tweaks in the Apple Music app, new “Celebrate” and “Send with Love” message screen effects, the option to preserve Camera app settings, and more.
