During its “Wonderlust” event today, Apple revealed that iOS 17 is ready to roll out to compatible iPhone models on Monday, September 18th, alongside iPadOS 17 and watchOS 10. macOS Sonoma will be made available for Mac on September 26.
iOS 17 to arrive on Monday, September 18th
Note: NameDrop and Journal app will not launch on September 18th. Both NameDrop and the Journal app will likely become available in a future update – likey before the end of 2023.
Some notable features of iOS 17 include Contact Posters, allowing users to customize caller information in the Phone and Contacts apps, adding a personalized touch to interactions. Live Voicemail is another exciting addition, offering real-time transcription for voicemail messages, enabling users to pick up important calls more efficiently while automatically declining spam calls.
FaceTime sees improvements with the ability to send voice and video messages, expanding communication options. Reactions have also been introduced, adding interactive effects like hearts, balloons, and fireworks to video calls. Even Apple TV 4K gets in on the FaceTime action, allowing video calls to be initiated from the television screen, providing a shared experience for everyone in the room.
The Messages app receives several enhancements, including a more precise search experience, audio message transcriptions, and integrated location sharing. A new Check-In feature lets users notify friends and family when they arrive safely, further enhancing coordination and communication.
A new addition called NameDrop simplifies sharing phone numbers and email addresses between nearby iPhones, streamlining contact sharing. The keyboard benefits from a transformer language model, improving predictions and autocorrect suggestions. A dictation upgrade enhances the typing experience.
iOS 17 introduces the Journal app, fostering reflection and gratitude through journaling with personalized suggestions based on recent activities. Scheduled notifications help users establish a consistent journaling habit, with strong privacy measures to keep entries secure.
iOS 17 also offers StandBy mode, offering a full-screen landscape experience with customization options for clocks, photos, widgets, and more. Siri’s voice activation no longer requires “Hey Siri,” and it can handle back-to-back commands without reactivation.
Additionally, Safari provides enhanced privacy features, password sharing with trusted contacts, and improved Private Browsing. The Health app incorporates mental health features, and Maps now supports offline maps and provides real-time charging availability for electric vehicle drivers.
AirTag sharing, AirPods enhancements, Home app updates, and enhanced photo recognition further enrich the iOS 17 experience. Privacy updates, Communication Safety, Sensitive Content Warning, and accessibility enhancements make iOS 17 a comprehensive update aimed at improving the iPhone’s personalization, communication, and privacy features.
Compatible devices
iOS 17 extends compatibility to iPhone XS and newer models, resulting in the discontinuation of support for the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X. Find the full list of supported devices here.
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