Apple’s highly anticipated iOS 17.4 update arrives in March, bringing an exciting suite of new features and changes for iPhone users. Let’s take a closer look at the most notable additions.
EU App Store Overhaul
To adhere to the EU’s Digital Markets Act, Apple is introducing major changes to its App Store. iPhone users within the EU’s 27 countries will enjoy significant new freedoms with iOS 17.4. These include:
- Alternative App Stores: Choose from third-party options outside of Apple’s official App Store.
- Flexible Payment Methods: Explore alternate payment solutions beyond Apple Pay.
- Third-Party Web Browsers: Utilize web browsers that don’t rely on Apple’s WebKit engine.
- NFC Access (Contactless Payments): Tap into third-party mobile wallet apps.
Apple Podcasts Transcripts: Your Listening Evolves
The iOS 17.4 update revolutionizes how you engage with podcasts. The enhanced Apple Podcasts app now generates transcripts, giving you the ability to:
- Read Along: Follow podcasts word-for-word.
- Easily Search: Find specific sections using keywords.
- Jump to Highlights: Navigate directly to impactful moments.
SharePlay Expands to HomePod
HomePod owners will appreciate the arrival of SharePlay music control as part of iOS 17.4. With just a tap, you can give family and friends the ability to manage music playback on your HomePod (with your permission, of course).
New Emoji Fun
Get ready to express yourself with more vibrant emoji options! iOS 17.4 introduces a collection of new icons, like a broken chain, brown mushroom, shaking heads, a lemon, and a phoenix.
The Stage is Set for Next-Gen CarPlay
While not a direct feature of iOS 17.4 itself, the update includes groundwork for the future launch of Apple’s next-generation CarPlay experience. Leaked code unveils potential apps like Automatic Setup, Car Camera, Charging, Climate, and more, all designed to make the CarPlay experience even more seamless.
- Automatic Setup: This app will allow you to manage your paired iPhone and adjust vehicle settings.
- Car Camera: This app will display the feed from the car’s rearview camera.
- Charging: For electric vehicles, this app will display battery level, charging status, time remaining until full charge,…
- Climate: This app will provide access to vehicle climate controls in CarPlay, allowing you to adjust A/C or heating temperature, fan speed, heated seats, heated steering wheel,…
- Doors: This app will display if any doors of the vehicle are open and it can also show vehicle warning symbols.
- Media: This app will provide access to FM and AM radio controls in CarPlay, along with other media options like SiriusXM. It’s unclear whether SiriusXM will provide satellite connectivity or remain limited to streaming over the internet. Users will be able to choose from a list of music genres, such as Top 40 and Rock.
- Tire Pressure: This app will display the air pressure for each tire of the vehicle and give low pressure, high pressure, and flat tire warnings.
- Trips: This app will provide various driving-related data, including the vehicle’s average speed, fuel efficiency or energy performance, total elapsed time, and distance traveled on a trip,…
Mark Your Calendars
With these and other exciting additions, iOS 17.4 promises to be a significant update for iPhone users. Keep an eye out this March for its official release!
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