Apple Released iOS 17.4

Apple Released iOS 17.4

Apple has rolled out iOS 17.4 on March 5, over a month following the public release of iOS 17.3 by the technology powerhouse. This substantial update to iOS introduces fresh features, including significant updates for users in the European Union, an array of new emojis, and crucial bug fixes for iPhones.

Rundown of what iOS 17.4 offers for your iPhone

A major overhaul has been made to Safari, the App Store, and iOS with iOS 17.4, specifically catering to users in Europe. This update enables individuals in the EU to install alternative app stores and applications from outside the official App Store. As reported by CNET’s Katie Collins, this represents one of the most significant shifts in the App Store’s approach since its launch in 2008. European users will also gain access to new default app settings, enhancing their ability to personalize their iPhone usage. These adjustments, announced back in January, are in response to the EU’s Digital Markets Act.

Enhanced in-app payment methods

iOS 17.4 expands the options for making in-app payments. By navigating to Settings > Privacy & Security, you’ll find a feature titled Contactless & NFC, which stands for near-field communication. Activating this option directs you to a page with a disclaimer, indicating future app requests to utilize contactless and NFC payments. While these enhancements were introduced alongside the updates for EU users, it’s unclear if they will apply to applications outside of this region.

Emojipedia addition

iOS 17.4 introduces over 100 new emojis, including icons such as a phoenix, a slice of lime, and broken chains, enriching the emoji selection for iPhone users. These emojis, revealed in 2023, have already made their way to some Android devices, including the latest Samsung smartphones.

Fortified iMessage security against emerging threats

iOS 17.4 fortifies your iMessage conversations against potential quantum computing-related cyberattacks. CNET’s David Lumb notes that while Apple has yet to encounter such threats, the company is proactively bolstering security.

Podcast transcripts now available

With iOS 17.4, you can read along with transcripts of your favorite podcasts while listening. Accessing the transcripts is as simple as playing a podcast and tapping a new speech bubble icon, allowing you to search within the transcript for specific references.

Virtual card numbers for Apple Cash

The iOS 17.4 update also enhances Apple Cash by introducing virtual card numbers, enabling online shopping at vendors not accepting Apple Pay. This feature includes a card number, expiration date, and security code, with an option to regenerate the card number for security reasons.

New digital clock widget

iOS 17.4 introduces the City Digital clock widget, showing the time and a preset location, useful for travelers or those keeping tabs on different time zones.

Expanded Stolen Device Protection options

Now, you can set security delays for accessing certain settings or making changes, either always or only when away from familiar locations like home.

Battery Health readout for iPhone 15 models

The new iOS brings a Battery Health feature for iPhone 15 models, providing a status word like Normal or Service, and detailed battery information.

New Home button in Music and Books apps

The introduction of a Home button in both the Apple Music and Books apps offers quick access to menus and recommendations.

Siri’s multilingual message reading capability

Siri can now read messages in multiple languages without altering its primary response language.

Enhanced Apple CarPlay and Maps experience

Certain vehicles supporting Apple CarPlay will display a new Maps instrument cluster with iOS 17.4, offering detailed maneuver information.

These release notes summarize emoji updates, Podcast transcripts, and various enhancements and bug fixes, including music recognition, multilingual Siri announcements, and more, aiming to improve the overall user experience on compatible devices. To update, navigate to Settings > General > Software Update, select Install Now, and follow the prompts.

Links

• iOS 17.4: All the Latest Features on Your iPhone Explained – CNET
• Sell pre-owned Apple product online – iGotOffer
• Everything About Apple’s Products – The complete guide to all Apple consumer electronic products, including technical specifications, identifiers and other valuable information.

iOS 17.4 is Out! – What’s New? [Video]

Video uploaded by zollotech on March 5, 2024.