Cupertino, CA – June 9, 2023 – Apple announced the upcoming release of its new operating system, iOS 17, set to debut in September alongside new iPhone models. The latest iteration emphasizes communication, interactivity, and seamless connectivity, bringing a myriad of improvements to key applications such as Phone, FaceTime, and Messages, along with an all-new Journal app.
Revamping Communication
The Phone app now offers customized Contact Posters, while third-party apps can also utilize this feature. A significant innovation in iOS 17, Live Voicemail, presents a real-time transcription of messages on the Lock Screen, enabling users to discern the importance of a call before deciding to answer. Moreover, the introduction of NameDrop, an extension of AirDrop, allows for the effortless exchange of contact information between nearby iPhones or Apple Watches.
Expanding FaceTime and Messages Functionality
FaceTime now supports both audio and video messages, offering a broader range of Reactions triggered by gestures, all of which will work with third-party apps. Additionally, FaceTime can be broadcast on Apple TV 4K using Continuity Camera.
Messages have been enhanced with a cleaner interface, more accessible features, and an upgraded Stickers experience. Additionally, real-time location sharing, auto-deletion of one-time verification codes, and new safety measures, such as a nudity warning, augment the user’s experience.
Introducing Interactive Home Screen and StandBy Mode
Widgets on the Home Screen are now interactive, offering new capabilities without requiring an app launch. StandBy mode activates when the iPhone is horizontally placed on a charger, providing essential information at a glance.
Health and Well-being at the Forefront
The Health app introduces a mood tracking feature and offers depression and anxiety assessments used in clinics, among other wellness innovations. The anticipated Journal app, powered by on-device machine learning, will encourage daily documentation of thoughts and activities.
Enhanced Safari, Photos, and Maps Apps
Safari now provides Face ID-protected private browsing and separate Profiles for work and personal use. The Photos app recognizes pets and offers Visual Lookup in paused videos. The Maps app enables offline map downloads for select regions and real-time charging availability information for electric vehicles.
Collaborative Features in Apple Music and Find My App
Apple Music introduces Collaborative Playlists and SharePlay in the car, transforming the music experience. AirTags in the Find My app can now be shared among users.
New Features for AirPods
Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, and Personalized Volume offer a superior listening experience for AirPods Pro 2 users.
Compatibility
iOS 17 is compatible with iPhone XR/iPhone XS and later models, excluding iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X.
Availability
iOS 17 is currently in beta testing and available for developers to download. An official launch is slated for September, with a public beta release planned in July.
For further information, visit www.apple.com/ios/ios-17-preview/.
About Apple
Apple revolutionizes technology with its innovative hardware, software, and services. Apple leads the world with its iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and Apple TV, plus a variety of professional and creative software applications.