Apple has seeded the first beta version of iOS 9.3 and shortly after issued iOS 9.2.1. Both updates were packed with security and bug fixes plus the expected feature upgrades that many believed give clues on what the iPhone 7 would be on release date later this 2016. 

For instance, iOS 9.2.1 plugs a hole on Apple's mobile operating system that has been identified by security experts three years ago. The anomaly was described as a security flaw that advanced hackers can use to remotely control a targeted iPhone.

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Before 9.2.1 was released this week, hackers can take advantage of the exploit by surreptitiously deploying an executable file to an iPhone that is connected to a public and mostly unsecured Wi-Fi network. According to Mashable, iPhones hacked in this manner would be open for security breach as sensitive or private information would be for thieves to take due to the creation of a secret backdoor known as captive portal.

Thankfully, iOS 9.2.1 shut down this passage by creating an isolated cookie store for captive portals that effectively stopped the leak. Now, iPhone users, which should include would-be iPhone 7 buyers, are assured of getting the same protection that Apple has just released.

As for iOS 9.3, which likely is the last installment in the 9.xx series, BGR said in a report that close scrutiny of the software (in beta) revealed a number of features that likely will unbox with the next iPhone. One is the supposed introduction of Li-Fi technology, which is being tipped as hundred-fold faster than the Wi-Fi standard already in place.

While the chance is high that Li-Fi will be part of the iPhone 7 package, it remains to be seen if compatible network hardware will be on hand later this year for the technology to be fully implemented. Nonetheless, Apple fans are assured that should Li-Fi become the next wireless connection standard the forward-looking iPhone 7 is all set for the rollout.

Another clue dropped by beta 9.3 is the possibility of the next iPhone missing a 3.5mm headphone jack, which BGR said was detected in the reference code of the recently released beta software. The discovery somehow confirmed the persistent report that Apple is killing the wired audio connection in time for the 2016 iPhone refresh.

Instead of the traditional sound connectivity, the iPhone 7 on release date will rely on the proprietary Lightning port for users to hook up their headphones. It is rumored too that Apple will unbox with the flagship phone a wireless listening gear, which will be sold separately.