The global rollout of iOS 17 for eligible iPhone devices, including those in India, has begun. For compatible devices, the company is also releasing macOS Sonoma, iPadOS 17, tvOS 17, and watchOS 10 as further software updates. On Apple’s currently supported devices, these updates will enhance numerous already-existing apps and services while introducing a few new capabilities. To try out the newest features, you can read our tutorial on how to download and install the newest iOS 17 software update on your iPhone.
You will need to wait for a later version if you want the new Journal app and the collaborative playlists for Apple Music, both of which were unveiled at WWDC 2023. They are not included in iOS 17. Here are some of the top features that you should test out after installing iOS 17 and macOS Sonoma.
Posters for contacts and Live Voicemail
While the majority of the iOS 17 user interface is very similar to iOS 16, the Phone app is getting a significant upgrade thanks to Contact Posters. Users are given the option to upload their own profile photo and poster, which are then shared with other contacts. These might feature huge, customizable typefaces with full-length graphics like Memoji. According to Apple, consumers in a few regions will also be able to access Live Voicemail that has been handled locally in real-time transcription.
NameDrop as well as AirDrop
The company’s own wireless sharing technology, AirDrop, will be enhanced in iOS 17. To share a file, start a SharePlay session, or play a game with another device, just bring them close together. You can utilize a new feature called NameDrop to share contact information with another user, including your Contact Poster, in addition to bringing your phone close to them to exchange various forms of data.
StandBy mode
Apple is finally adding support for an interface to show important information while its handsets are charging, even though the company’s iPhones have supported wireless charging since the iPhone 8 model. After installing iOS 17, your iPhone will be able to display Live Activities, alerts, widgets, and Siri while it is held horizontally. This functionality is compatible with both wired and wireless chargers.
Private Browsing Lock with Safari Profiles
With the most recent iOS 17 and macOS Sonoma updates, Apple’s web browser acquired a few new features. Private Browsing tabs will be locked behind Face ID or Touch ID, making it impossible for unauthorized people to view them without your permission. Multiple profiles are now supported by Safari, allowing you to separate your cookies, bookmarks, and browsing history and move between them for personal and professional use. Since a few years ago, competing browsers like Chrome and Firefox have enabled profiles, and Chrome even lets users lock Incognito tabs on mobile devices.
Stickers for Messages to Check In and Stay Live
Check In, a new Messages feature that lets you let a family member know when you have arrived home safely, is getting support from Apple. The Messages app will safely and momentarily let your family member know where you are, how much battery life you have left, and information about your cellular service if you are not going in the direction that has been set. Meanwhile, by long tapping an image and sending it to the Messages app on your smartphone, you can make stickers. According to Apple, they will be available in a brand-new stickers section that can be used on any iOS devices.
