iOS 16.6 Stay Away - Here’s Why!

**A New Feature is Coming to iMessage: Contact Key Verification**

Apple has announced that iOS 16.6 will bring a new feature to iMessage, contact key verification, which aims to protect users from eavesdropping in conversations. This feature will prevent others from accessing your conversation with another device, ensuring that you're talking to the person you intend to. The feature is expected to arrive in iOS 16.6, but it's not yet available for testing.

**iOS 16.6 and Contact Key Verification**

In settings, users can search for contact key verification, which provides information about the feature. However, the actual feature has not been populated yet, indicating that Apple is still working on its implementation. The release of this feature marks an improvement in iMessage security, allowing users to ensure they're communicating with the intended person.

**Digital Wallet Driver's License Now Available in Georgia**

Residents of Georgia can now add their digital wallet driver's license to their iPhone. The feature was made available after Apple collaborated with local government agencies to bring it to iPhone devices. This is part of a slow rollout, and only four states have been affected so far. As more states are added, users will be able to access this feature.

**Caution: Avoid iOS 16.6 for Now**

The author of the article advises users to avoid installing iOS 16.6 until further notice due to various issues reported with the update. The lock screen has experienced problems, including freezing and becoming unresponsive. Apple apps have also crashed, particularly the camera application, which often freezes before taking a picture. Furthermore, notifications sometimes cause the app to crash when tapped. These issues suggest that iOS 16.6 may not be stable.

**Battery Life on iOS 16.6**

The article notes that battery life on iOS 16.6 has been less stable than expected. Although it's hard to judge the battery without running the beta for an extended period, users can expect a similar performance to their previous iOS versions.

**Upcoming Updates and WWDC**

The next beta, scheduled for release on June 29th (Memorial Day), will likely address some of the issues reported by users. The developer beta 1 for iOS 17 is expected to be released shortly after WWDC, which is anticipated to take place in early June.

**Conclusion**

Users are advised to wait for the next beta or stay on iOS 16.4/16.5 until further notice due to the various issues reported with iOS 16.6. Apple will release more updates and address these problems in future betas.