The highly anticipated iOS 17 is just around the corner, and Apple fans are already feeling the excitement building up. As an iPhone user, you’re probably eager to uncover all the exciting features that iOS 17 has in store. Well, you’re in luck! Apple officially announced iOS 17 during the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June and has already opened the doors for beta testing. The stable version of iOS 17 is slated to make its way to compatible iPhones in September of this year.
Now that the cat’s out of the bag, you’re likely itching to learn more about iOS 17. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of iOS 17, exploring its standout features, release date, and supported devices. So, get ready to discover the latest and greatest from Apple’s iOS ecosystem.
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iOS 17 Release Date
Apple wasted no time in releasing the iOS 17 beta build to developers. The developer beta for iOS 17 was made available for download on June 5th. As for the public beta, it’s expected to roll out sometime this month. So, if you’re a developer or eager to get a taste of iOS 17 before its official launch, keep an eye out for the public beta release. As for the global rollout, Apple is likely to make iOS 17 available to the masses in September 2023.
iOS 17 Features – What’s New and Exciting
With each iteration of iOS, Apple introduces a slew of new features aimed at enhancing your everyday experiences. iOS 17 is no exception, bringing a host of exciting additions that are sure to leave Apple fans in awe. From improved calling features to interactive widgets, iOS 17 packs a punch. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout features you can expect:
1. Journal:
One notable addition in iOS 17 is the introduction of a new app called Journal. Think of it as your digital diary or note-taking companion. With Journal, you can capture your thoughts on life’s big events or even mundane activities. Add rich details to your entries by incorporating photos, music, audio, and more. It’s a fantastic way to chronicle and relive your special moments.
2. Live Voicemail:
Say goodbye to pesky scam calls with the Live Voicemail feature in iOS 17. Many users tend to avoid answering unknown numbers to dodge spam calls, but in doing so, they risk missing important calls as well. That’s where voicemail comes into play, allowing callers to leave a recorded message when you’re unable to answer. However, iOS 17 takes voicemail to the next level. Live Voicemail offers real-time transcription of the messages being left, giving you immediate context for the call. No more playing catch-up with lengthy voicemails!
3. FaceTime Features:
FaceTime receives a boost in iOS 17 with an array of exciting additions. Now, when someone misses your FaceTime call, you can record a video or audio message to send to them. Communication safety features and sensitive content warnings also extend to FaceTime messages, ensuring a safer and more secure experience.
4. AirDrop Enhancements:
iOS 17 introduces significant changes to AirDrop, making file sharing even more seamless. With the revamped functionality, you can share content with those nearby by bringing your iPhones close together to initiate the transfer. Moreover, if you and the recipient are signed in to iCloud, files shared via AirDrop will continue to send in full quality over the internet, even if you leave the range.
5. Safari Updates:
Apple’s web browser, Safari, receives an upgrade in iOS 17. The new version allows you to create profiles, enabling you to keep your browsing separate for work and personal use. Each profile will have its own history, extensions, Tab Groups, Cookies, and favorites. Enhanced Private Browsing, Autofill verification codes received in the Mail, and other features contribute to a more enhanced browsing experience.
6. Offline Maps:
iOS 17 finally brings the long-awaited offline navigation feature to Apple Maps. With this update, you can save a specific area of a map to your iPhone and navigate it while offline. Whether you’re walking, driving, cycling, or riding, you can rely on turn-by-turn directions even without an internet connection.
7. Sticker Creation:
iOS 17 provides you with a fun and easy way to create unique stickers. Simply touch and hold an object in a photo, and it instantly transforms into a sticker. From there, you can customize the visual elements using effects like Shiny, Comic, Puffy, and more. You can even create animated live stickers using Live Photos, which can be used in apps downloaded from the App Store.
8. StandBy – Your iPhone as a Smart Display:
StandBy introduces a new way to view glanceable information on your iPhone screen, effectively turning it into a smart display. Simply place your iPhone on its side while charging, and StandBy mode will activate. In this mode, your iPhone will showcase time, photos, weather information, calendar events, widgets, and even Live Activities, providing you with useful and engaging content.
9. Interactive Widgets:
iOS 17 takes widgets to a whole new level of interactivity. You can now engage with widgets right from your home screen, lock screen, or even in StandBy mode. This means you can control music playback, access your home controls, and even complete tasks and to-dos without having to open any apps. It’s all about convenience and making your iPhone experience smoother than ever.
Additional Exciting Features:
iOS 17 Preview also introduces a range of extra features that aim to enhance your daily activities. For instance, the visual lookup feature lets you discover more information from photos and videos, unlocking a new level of exploration. Improved permissions, a lockdown mode for added security, accessibility enhancements, and updates to Memoji are just a few more highlights that await you in iOS 17.
iOS 17 Compatibility – Will My iPhone Get iOS 17?
Naturally, you’re probably wondering if your beloved iPhone is compatible with iOS 17. Apple has already released a list of all iPhones that will be able to run iOS 17, and we’ve got you covered with the details:
- iPhone 14 series (including iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Pro Max)
- iPhone 13 series (including iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max)
- iPhone 12 series (including iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max)
- iPhone 11 series (including iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max)
- iPhone XS series (including iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max)
- iPhone XR
- iPhone SE (2nd generation or later)
Unfortunately, if you’re rocking an iPhone 8 or any of the iPhone X models, you won’t be able to upgrade to iOS 17. But don’t fret! There are still plenty of great features and updates to explore on your current iOS version.
Conclusion
These are just a handful of the exciting features that iOS 17 brings to the table. As Apple continues to innovate and refine its operating system, users can expect a plethora of enhancements designed to make their iPhone experience even more enjoyable.