Devices eligible for iOS 12.1 update are the iPhone 5s and later models
Group FaceTime is integrated into the Messages app
FaceTime uses on-device intelligence to display most prominent speakers
Apple will on Tuesday release iOS 12.1 for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch (sixth generation) users. The newest version brings Group FaceTime with up to 32 people simultaneously and over 70 new emoji to iPhones and iPads via iOS 12.1.
The company claims that FaceTime changed the way people communicate and share important moments , and "now with Group FaceTime, it's easy to chat with more people than ever before, from two to 32 people."
iOS 12.1 also brings Depth Control in real-time preview and dual-SIM support to iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR customers.
To download and install iOS 12.1 on your Apple device, go to Settings > General > Software Update and then follow the on-screen instructions. Your device should be using a Wi-Fi connection to download the over-the-air update. Also, it is recommended to back up your data, and ensuring your device has over 50 percent of charge or connected to a power source before beginning the update process.
Devices eligible for the iOS 12.1 update are the iPhone 5s and later models, all iPad Air and iPad Pro models, iPad 5th generation and later models, iPad 6th generation and later models, iPad mini 2 and later models, and the iPod touch 6th generation.
Group FaceTime is integrated into the Messages app, making it easy to start a Group FaceTime right from a group iMessage chat.
"If people in a conversation have already started a FaceTime session, Messages shows the active call in the conversation list and inside your conversations," said Apple.
FaceTime now uses on-device intelligence to display the most prominent speakers on the call, automatically highlighting the current speaker by bringing them to the forefront.
It automatically sizes each person's image depending upon how active they are in the conversation, based on duration of speech, volume and even motion.
"Participants who are not active will appear at the bottom of the screen until they speak. A simple tap also brings a participant front and centre," Apple added.
When calling more than one person, FaceTime displays a notification that lets you instantly join a call without being disruptive.
More than 70 new emoji have come to iPhone and iPad with iOS 12.1. New emoji will also be available on Apple Watch and Mac with a free software update.
With iOS 12.1, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR gain dual-SIM support, featuring a Nano-SIM and digital eSIM.
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