Apple aficionados and tech enthusiasts, the wait is almost over! The iOS 17.4 update, poised to be a substantial leap from its predecessor, iOS 17.3, is inching closer to its grand unveiling. With beta versions already in the hands of developers and public beta testers, the buzz around this update is undeniable. So, what makes iOS 17.4 a much-anticipated update, and when can we expect its official release? Let’s delve into the details.
Embracing Change: The EU’s Influence on iOS 17.4
A significant highlight of iOS 17.4 is its tailored features for the European Union (EU), marking a pivotal shift in Apple’s approach to its operating system. However, global users aren’t left behind, as the update brings a plethora of universally applicable enhancements. Here’s a sneak peek into what iOS 17.4 has in store:
- App Store Evolution in the EU: For the first time, iOS 17.4 introduces support for alternative applications, allowing various companies to offer their apps to Apple users.
- Adapting to the Digital Markets Act: The update embraces several changes, including:
- Support for alternative payment methods in in-app purchases.
- Integration of Apple Pay with wallet apps and default NFC setting.
- Browser engine flexibility beyond WebKit.
- Third-party App Store support is exclusive to iPhone users in the EU.
- A revised commission structure for European applications.
- Inclusion of game-streaming applications.
- Enhanced browser choice with a Safari pop-up message.
iOS 17.4 Public Beta 4 (21E5209b) has been released. #iOS174 #iOS174Beta4 pic.twitter.com/zqVJLDAkEC
— iSoftware Updates (@iSWUpdates) February 20, 2024
Enhanced Features: Elevating the iOS User Experience
iOS 17.4 isn’t just about compliance and broadening app ecosystems; it’s also about elevating the overall user experience. Here’s what else is new:
- Stolen Device Protection: A new layer of security allowing users to set constant security delays for changing sensitive settings.
- Podcast Transcripts: Apple Podcasts will now feature automatic transcripts, searchable and integrated with the “Now Playing” status bar, mirroring the Apple Music interface.
- Emoji Updates: The introduction of new emojis and tweaks to existing family emojis.
- Siri’s Language Expansion: Siri gets a boost with added support for multiple languages in various tasks.
- Vision Pro Compatibility: For Apple Vision Pro users, iOS 17.4 brings the option to disable Double Tap, avoiding conflicts with the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2.
Additional improvements include an enlarged Safari address bar, expanded “Siri” voice command availability, renaming of tabs in Apple Music & Podcasts apps, and a new “Identifiable Region” setting.
The Countdown Begins: Predicting the Release of iOS 17.4
While Apple remains tight-lipped about the exact release date of iOS 17.4, expert speculation points to early March 2024. The buzz suggests a potential release around March 4th or 6th, aligning with the Digital Markets Act deadline and Apple’s typical update patterns.
Join the Conversation: Your Thoughts on iOS 17.4
As we eagerly await the official roll-out of iOS 17.4, we turn to you, our readers. Have you experimented with the Beta version? Which feature are you most excited about? Share your thoughts and expectations in the comments section below. Stay tuned for more updates and insights on this groundbreaking iOS update. Thank you for joining us on this tech journey!
