All the very best iPhone options you need to find out about

Apple launched iOS 17 final September after asserting the iPhone 15, Apple Watch Series 9, and Apple Watch Ultra 2. The replace consists of loads of new options and capabilities, similar to enhancements to the Messages app, a brand new Contact Poster, and StandBy, a function that turns your iPhone into a sensible show whereas charging.

Since then, Apple has launched a number of updates, including new options, fixing bugs and bettering the general iPhone expertise. Beneath you will discover particulars about each main iOS 17 replace Apple has launched since its launch final fall.

What’s new in iOS 17.5 beta to date?

There’s nothing apparent to date, however there are many hints of what is to come back

The primary developer preview of iOS 17.5 was launched April 2, 2024. The replace got here alongside related releases for the iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV, Mac and Apple Vision Pro.

After putting in the primary beta, we’ve not discovered any apparent new options but, however code sleuths have been combing via the replace and have discovered a number of key enhancements that, if all goes effectively, will debut with the official launch of iOS 17.5 when it is prepared for official launch — probably throughout the subsequent two months.

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Code in iOS 17.5 signifies EU customers can have the choice to sideload apps instantly from a developer’s web site and never a third-party retailer, a brand new Apple Pencil mannequin is coming, and apparently, it has a squeeze gesture management, and, lastly, there’s additionally code indicating Apple is poised to launch new anti-stalking instruments for merchandise trackers. You possibly can learn extra about every of those new options and more in our full coverage.

What arrived in iOS 17.4?

EU iPhone house owners break away from the App Retailer, new emoji and extra

Apple launched iOS 17.4 on March 5, 2024, as the most recent main replace for the iPhone.

The replace consists of a number of new options and enhancements, with essentially the most notable change being one of many greatest ever for the App Retailer. As soon as iOS 17.4 is launched, Apple will give iPhone house owners who reside within the European Union the choice to put in apps from third-party app shops along with Apple’s App Retailer.

We broke down the entire announcement if you wish to know the finer particulars. Additionally included in iOS 17.4 are new emoji, a transcription function for the Apple Podcasts app, enhancements to Stolen System Safety, and extra. You possibly can read through all the changes and new features here.

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What arrived in iOS 17.3?

Activate Stolen System Safety proper now

Apple launched iOS 17.3 on Jan. 22, 2024.

The replace included the standard bug fixes and efficiency enhancements, together with a very new function referred to as Stolen Device Protection. When enabled (which you undoubtedly ought to have enabled), Stolen System Safety will stop would-be thieves from altering your iCloud account password, even when they watch and memorize you coming into your telephone’s passcode. Collaborative playlists for Apple Music, and the lengthy awaited help for AirPlay in resorts was additionally enabled (though, no resorts formally help the function quote but.)

What arrived in iOS 17.2?

Enhancements to Messages and a Journal app

Apple launched iOS 17.2 on Dec. 11, 2023. The iPhone replace included the beforehand announced Journal app, a brand new method to make use of emoji to answer to messages within the Messages app, a translation choice for the Motion Button on the iPhone 15 Professional/Professional Max, digital camera enhancements and extra. Read our full rundown of iOS 17.2 to get caught up.

What arrived in iOS 17.1?

It wasn’t a serious replace, however not all

iOS 17.1 made its debut on Oct. 25, 2023.

It launched enhancements to AirDrop, together with the flexibility to proceed transferring an merchandise over the web while you go away AirDrop vary of the opposite particular person. The Apple Watch Sequence 9 and Extremely 2 obtained extra notable updates alongside the discharge of iOS 17.1, as effectively, which you’ll be able to read all about here.

What did iOS 17 carry to the iPhone?

Loads of new options to be discovered

iOS 17 was launched shortly after Apple introduced the iPhone 15 lineup. The replace added a number of new instruments, options, and enhancements to the iPhone lineup.

A few of these options embrace:

Oh, I nearly forgot — there are a ton of hidden features, as effectively.

Updating your iPhone

Compatibility, preparation and tips on how to set up

If you have not up to date to iOS 17 but, there is not any time like the current. When you’re not sure in case your iPhone is even appropriate with the replace, we have a complete list.

When you’re able to improve, be sure to backup your phone before taking the plunge. Future you’ll thanks if one thing goes flawed throughout the replace.

With a recent backup, it is lastly time to put in iOS 17 in your iPhone. Follow our guide here for step-by-step instructions.