Anyone with an older version of the phone can test out the new software for free.

If you sign up for the Apple software program on your phone, you'll get the public version of the operating system. If you encounter bugs, incompatible apps, reduced battery life, or other issues, keep in mind that you're still in the early stages of the software's development. It's a good idea to think carefully before installing the public version of the phone.

We've put together a list of seven new features to check out if you're installing the public version of the operating system on your phone.

Customize the Lock Screen

The headline new feature of the app is the ability to personalize the Lock Screen with multi-colored wallpaper, custom fonts for the date and time, and more.

There is a new Weather wallpaper with live weather conditions and an Astronomy wallpaper that gives views of the Earth, moon, and solar system in the Lock Screen gallery.

Edit or Unsend an iMessage

The ability to unsend or edit iMessages is one of the new features in the latest version of the mobile operating system. You can unsend an iMessage for up to 15 minutes after it's been sent.

If you want to unsend a message, you need to tap and hold on the bubble and select the option that appears. Messages that have been edited are sent as a new message.

Use the Full-Screen Music Player

There is a full-screen music player on the Lock Screen with album art and a color matched wallpaper.

The Lock Screen had a full-screen music player in the past. If you don't like the feature, you can change the Lock Screen wallpaper to something else.

Create an iCloud Shared Photo Library

The ability to create a shared photo library in the Photos app is one of the most useful new features in the public version of the operating system.

It's easy to share photos with your family and friends with the help of the iCloud shared photo library. You can add, edit, or remove photos with up to five other people.

Game With Nintendo Joy-Cons

The Joy-Cons and Pro Controller can be used with both the left and right Joy-Cons.

The PS5 and Xbox Series X controllers are compatible with the iPhone in the past.

Track an Apple Pay Order

Tracking information for online orders can be found in the Wallet app when using Apple Pay. When a package is out for delivery is indicated by the tracker.

ios 16 apple pay order tracking

Close Your Rings Without an Apple Watch

Even if you don't own an Apple Watch, the fitness app can be found on the iPhone. A person's calories burned and steps per day are estimated by the daily activity ring in the app.

In September, all users will be able to use the new operating system. Some of the biggest new features can be seen in our video.