Apple's iOS 9.3 Update: What You Need to Know About the New Features

Apple's latest update includes a feature to help you sleep better.

ByABC News
March 22, 2016, 3:15 PM

— -- Here's an Apple upgrade you won't have to pay for: The iPhone maker announced its latest operating system update -- iOS 9.3 -- is now available for download.

Want to make sure you have the latest version of iOS 9? Check by going to settings, general and then software update to download and install the latest version.

Here's a look at some of the new features users can expect in iOS 9.3.

Night Shift

Perhaps the coolest new feature in iOS 9.3 is night shift. Using a device's clock and geolocation, Night Shift will gradually shift the colors in a user's display to the warmer end of the spectrum as bedtime approaches, Apple said, reducing the blue end of the spectrum that is said to interfere with sleep. In the morning, it will return the display to its usual settings.

"Many studies have shown that exposure to bright blue light in the evening can affect your circadian rhythms and make it harder to fall asleep," Apple's website said, underscoring a need for the feature.

Health

Health has been a big focus of iOS 9 -- and now Apple is making it easier to find third-party apps to help with a user's goals. The Health app will also display moving, exercise and standing data from the Apple Watch, putting all of a user's health data in a central place.

Apple iOS 9.3 will allow users to secure Notes with a password or fingerprint.
Apple

Notes

The Notes app has long replaced the old pen and paper, but Apple is now making it even more secure by giving users the option to add a password or TouchID access. The app will also allow people to sort their notes by date created, date modified or alphabetically, providing another layer of organization.

CarPlay

CarPlay, Apple's foray into the automotive world, is getting even smarter. A "nearby" feature in maps will make it simple to find everything from a gas station to restaurants, coffee shops and more. Also new are expanded Apple Music recommendations that will give users selections based on their music preferences.

Education

Apple is adding new education features that make it easier to share iPads in a classroom that may not have enough devices for every student. Students will be able to use their own login and pick up where they left off on any iPad. Younger students will also have simpler four-digit logins, making the technology accessible for everyone. Administrators are also given the ability to check in on students with screen view or lock a certain app if a student is having trouble staying on task.