Apple iOS 10.3 Beta Updates: Includes Floating Keyboard for iPad, Limits Review Pop-Ups

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Apple has released the first beta version of iOS 10.3 for developer testing on iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch. Last year, Apple iOS 9.3 beta was introduced on Jan. 11, 2016, while its official version was released on March 12, 2016. This hints at the Apple iOS 10.3 release date this year. It is possible that Apple will time the launch of the new iOS with the three new iPads that are rumored to be launched in the next quarter.

The 9to5Mac reported that the Apple iOS 10.3 will include apps like "Find My iPhone", "Find My AirPods" to help you find lost gadgets. There is a new Music app widget in the already-present "Podcasts" app. The Settings app will have a new prominent user security section. This section allows you to set up an "Apple ID" profile that will include all the devices you've signed into. Listed under an iCloud setting, this profile will be linked iCloud, iTunes & App Store, and Family Sharing, and will help yu see how your iCloud storage space is being used. Besides iCloud management options, it will also include settings for iCloud Backup, Keychain, and Find My iPhone.

The new Review API in Apple 1OS 10.3 will limit the number of times an app can ask users to leave a review to three times a year. This update will also allow people to turn-off such pop-ups completely. Another notable feature of the new Apple iOS is the floating keyboard for smaller iPads. For now, it can be enabled through code settings in 7.9 or 9.7-inch iPads. Animation for opening and closing apps has been tweaked slightly in the Apple iOS 10.3 too. The apps have more rounded edges as they open in the new iOS version.

According to the Digital Trends, this is the first time Apple is allowing its iOS 10.3 app makers to public respond to the customer reviews on its App Store and Mac App Store. The "Managing App Store Ratings and Reviews" section in the iOS 10.3 beta documentation also had a fine print that mentioned that the developers using the SKStoreReviewController API "can ask users to rate or review app while they're using it, without sending them to the App Store."

iOS 10.3 uses new Apple File System (APFS). The SiriKit has been updated to include the functionality of paying your bills, and schedule rides from services like Uber. Safari will now allow you to choose "Reduced Motion" in web apps. In CarPlay, you will be able to quickly access the last three apps you used without the need to go to the Home screen first. Apple iOS 10.3 does not include the "Theater Mode" or Control Center toggle yet. However, the future watchOS update includes the "Theater Mode" and you may be able to activate it on iPhone later.