Apple releases iOS 16.1 for compatible iPhones, delivering Live Activities, expanded battery percentage indicators, and Clean Energy Charging, along with performance and security improvements.

This is the first major update since iOS 16 launched in September, focusing on new features, stability, and security enhancements.

Analysts see Live Activities as a potential driver of user engagement, while Matter support strengthens cross-brand smart home interoperability.

iCloud Shared Photo Library is introduced, offering a separate library for sharing photos with up to six people, complementing users’ personal libraries, alongside expanded Matter smart home support.

Clean Energy Charging is introduced as an optional feature that charges the iPhone when lower-carbon electricity is available from the local grid, reducing carbon footprint.

The update answers common questions on which models gain the battery percentage fix, how Live Activities work, the role of iCloud Shared Photo Library and Matter in the ecosystem, and details of Clean Energy Charging.

Live Activities appear on the Lock Screen via a new developer API, enabling real-time tracking of events from supported apps without unlocking the device.

Apple emphasizes broader ecosystem integration and performance improvements for a smoother experience across iOS and connected devices.

Security patches address actively exploited vulnerabilities, with a strong recommendation to install for improved device security.

Developers are encouraged to adopt the new Live Activities API, alongside notes of ongoing stability and ecosystem improvements in the update notes.

An outlook mentions an iOS 16.2 release planned for early 2026 with further refinements and a WWDC 2026 preview of iOS 17 features.

Matter smart home compatibility is expanded, enhancing interoperability and security across devices from different manufacturers.