Apple releases RCs of iOS 16.6 and iPadOS 16.6 with possible iMessage Contact Key verification

Apple has today released the Release Candidates (RCs) for the upcoming updates iOS 16.6 and iPadOS 16.6 for developers to test. The RCs are the final version of the software that will be distributed to iPhone and iPad users. Additionally, the updates hint at the possible introduction of iMessage Contact Key Verification, which allows users to verify the authenticity of the individuals they are communicating with. Developers can sign up for the betas by opening the Settings, going to "Software Update" and enabling the "Beta Updates" option. Please note that downloading and installing the beta requires an Apple ID with a developer account. Although the first beta version already included hints of iMessage Contact Key Verification, it is unclear whether this feature will actually be included in iOS 16.6 as the hints have since been removed. For more info, check out [MacRumors](https://www.macrumors.com/2023/07/18/apple-releases-ios-16-6-rc/). In summary, Apple has distributed the Release Candidates of iOS 16.6 and iPadOS 16.6 to developers. The updates could introduce iMessage Contact Key Verification, but it is unclear if this will actually be the case.