Apple is rumored to introduce a feature in iOS 14.5 that allows users to switch their default music app.
In the world of technology, Apple's iOS 14.5 public beta has been making waves, offering enhanced user flexibility and easing up on forcing users to use their own services. One of the most noticeable changes is the ability to change default options beyond music app selection.
Previously, Siri would default to Apple Music when an app wasn't specified. However, in the iOS 14.5 public beta, Siri now displays options for Apple Music, Spotify, Podcasts, and Books when asked to play a specific artist like Phoebe Bridgers. Reddit user matejamm1 observed that other music apps installed on the device also appeared in the selection menu. If Spotify is selected, Siri may default to that app the next time it is asked to play music.
Another welcomed addition is the ability to change default mail and browser apps to non-Apple services like Gmail and Chrome. This move towards providing greater user choice in the operating system has been appreciated by many.
Moreover, the iOS 14.5 public beta has introduced a small, but appreciated, convenience in 2021: the ability to use an Apple Watch to unlock an iPhone while wearing a mask. This feature can save users a few seconds during the unlocking process. Gizmodo has confirmed the existence of this feature in iOS 14.5.
However, the inconsistency in the default app selection indicates that the feature may still be under development and subject to changes. Colleagues not running the public beta did not have this option when asking Siri to play music, suggesting it's a feature exclusive to the beta version.
The iOS 14.5 beta, released between February and April 2021, allows Siri to prompt users to select a music app when asked to play a song or artist. This is a significant departure from the norm, where Siri would default to Apple Music.
Overall, the iOS 14.5 public beta is a step forward in providing users with more control over their devices, making the user experience more personalised and flexible. As the beta phase continues, we can expect to see more features and improvements being introduced.
