The new Apple iOS 17 software update was rolled out for iPhone users worldwide earlier this week on September 18th, 2023.
It is available as a free software update for the newly-launched iPhone 15 series as well as older iPhone models.
iOS 17 was initially released in public beta form in July. Apart from iOS 17, Apple also unveiled iPadOS 17, tvOS 17 and watchOS 10 at the WWDC earlier in June. All of the aforementioned software updates are available for download.
Devices that are eligible for an iOS 17 upgrade include –
- iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro & iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro & iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro & iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro & iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max
- iPhone XR
- iPhone SE (2nd generation or later)
The iOS 17 will offer new features across Apple’s first-party apps, including the Phone app, Messages, FaceTime. The software introduces functionalities like Live Voicemail as well as FaceTime audio and video messages.
The Phone app gets major updates, with Contact Posters that allow users to customize how they appear to their contacts, and Live Voicemail which allows real-time on-device transcription as someone leaves a voicemail. Users can even pick up the call while the caller is leaving a message for them.
Messages gets a new stickers experience, more powerful search, transcription of audio messages, and Check In, which allows users to automatically notify friends and family when they have made it to their destination safely, according to Apple.
NameDrop gives users a new way to use AirDrop to more easily share contact information by simply putting two iPhone devices together.
StandBy gives users a customisable full-screen experience with glanceable information designed to be viewed from a distance when iPhone is on its side and charging. The Always-On display of iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max enables StandBy to stay on and show useful information.
Safari adds greater protection for Private Browsing and introduces profiles, helping people separate their browsing for work and personal use.
The other updates that come with iOS 17 include a journaling app, improvements to autocorrect and Dictation, password and passkey sharing with iCloud Keychain, and so on.
