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Apple unleashes iOS 12.1, Group FaceTime and new emojis in tow

New emojis in iOS 12.1 (Source: Apple Newsroom)
New emojis in iOS 12.1 (Source: Apple Newsroom)
Just as previously rumored, the new update for Apple's mobile operating system — iOS 12.1 — comes with Group FaceTime and a set of new emojis. In addition to these changes that target all compatible iPhones and iPads, the iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max receive depth control in camera preview and dual-SIM support.
by Codrut Nistor, 2018/10/30
Apple iOS Software iPhone iPad Pro

Officially unveiled yesterday, Apple's iOS 12.1 update is rolling out already to compatible iPhone and iPad devices. Although the most obvious changes are Group FaceTime and the over 70 new emojis, the latest update to this mobile operating system also comes with a few other highlights.

Although older iPhones will not get these capabilities, the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR receive depth control in real-time preview and dual-SIM support. In addition to groups, FaceTime also receives the following:

  • automatic detection of active speakers
  • ringless notification
  • end-to-end encryption for all conversations
  • Messages app integration

At last, we should also mention that, on iOS 12.1 iPhone flagships, dual-SIM requires a nano-SIM and an eSIM. The problem is that customers located in mainland China cannot get an eSIM. In Hong Kong and Macau, only the iPhone XS gets eSIM support. In most other regions, the users of the latest iPhone flagships should have no problems using the dual-SIM capabilities of their devices. However, they should ask their local carrier(s) before purchasing a new handset, just to be sure.

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> Notebook / Laptop Reviews and News > News > News Archive > Newsarchive 2018 10 > Apple unleashes iOS 12.1, Group FaceTime and new emojis in tow
Codrut Nistor, 2018-10-30 (Update: 2018-10-30)
Codrut Nistor
Codrut Nistor - News Editor
Although I have been writing about new software and hardware for almost a decade, I consider myself to be old school. I always enjoy listening to music on CD or tape instead of digital files and I will not even get into the touchscreen vs physical keys debate. However, I also enjoy new technology, as I now have the chance to take a look at the future every day. I joined the Notebookcheck crew back in 2013 and I have no plans to leave the ship anytime soon.