Apple iOS 8.3 Adds Password Settings And 'Hey Siri' Speakerphone Support

Apple Inc.’s next update to iOS 8 is expected to come chock-full of changes and improvements for the mobile operating system that powers its iPhones and iPads. Among them are fixes to remove some of the nuisances within the OS.

One such modification is expected to happen within the App Store and iTunes. In a beta version of iOS 8.3, Apple has added a “Password Settings” options that allows users to choose how frequently they want the company to ask for a password or Touch ID fingerprint scan, 9to5Mac reported. IOS 8.2 -- the current version of Apple’s mobile operating system -- requires users to enter their passwords or authenticate purchases through the Touch ID fingerprint reader whenever a purchase is made, whether or not it's free.

The “Password Settings” toggle would allow users to choose to bypass this feature for free apps and content.

Another change also expected to find its way into 8.3 is how iOS handles phone calls placed through “Hey Siri,” the hands-free voice activated assistant. With the update, users will now be able to place a call with speakerphone enabled by command. The current version requires users to manually toggle speakerphone after placing a call through Siri.

In addition to these changes, iOS 8.3 will add wireless support for CarPlay, diverse emojis, support for Google account two-factor authentication, more Siri languages and Apple Pay support in China.

Though Apple normally uses developers in its paid membership program to beta test versions of iOS, the company has also enlisted the help of some users to squash bugs before its final release. While testing continues, it’s unknown when Apple will release iOS 8.3. The company is also reportedly working on iOS 9, which is expected to focus on bug fixes and optimization.