Apple will release iOS 14.5, iPadOS 14.5 ‘next week’

What you need to know

• Apple says iOS 14.5 and iPadOS 14.5 will launch next week.
• The update will be needed to use AirTags, Apple says.

You’ll need them installed before using AirTags.

Apple announced a slew of new products and service updates today, not least the arrival of AirTags. Hidden right at the bottom of the Apple Newsroom post announcing the trackers, Apple also confirmed when iOS 14.5 and iPadOS 14.5 will be released.

Next week, if you were wondering. And you’ll need the software updates installed if you want to make use of AirTags.

AirTag requires iPhone or iPod touch running iOS 14.5 or later, or iPad running iPadOS 14.5 or later. These software updates will be available starting next week. Customers must have an Apple ID and be signed into their iCloud account. Certain features require Find My to be enabled in iCloud settings.

Apple’s iOS 14.5 update has been through a lot of betas in recent weeks but it seems Apple is now finally ready to launch it.

As for AirTags, they’ll be available starting April 30 along with a ton of accessories for carrying them and attaching them to just about anything you might not want to lose.