Apple’s next major software update, iOS 17.4, is expected to arrive this week, bringing a mix of new features and EU-specific changes to iPhones and iPads.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
New Features for Everyone:
- Emoji Extravaganza: Express yourself with seven new emoji like shaking heads, a phoenix, and a lime.
- Podcast Power Up: Enjoy transcripts in Apple Podcasts, searchable and synced with playback, similar to Apple Music’s lyrics feature.
- Siri Speaks More Languages: Get messages read aloud in additional languages beyond your main Siri language.
- CarPlay Gets Upgraded: Prepare for a more integrated and advanced CarPlay experience, although details remain under wraps.
- Battery Health Insights: The Settings app offers improved battery health information, making it easier to understand your iPhone’s battery performance.
EU-Specific Changes:
- App Store Revolution: Apple opens the door to alternative app marketplaces on iPhones, allowing companies like Epic Games to offer their own app stores.
- Browser Choice: iPhone users in the EU will be able to choose a default browser engine and set a preferred web browser.
- Payment Freedom: Developers can now offer alternative payment methods within their apps, bypassing Apple’s in-app purchase system.
- NFC & Wallet Freedom: Users can set default NFC and wallet apps for payments, offering more control over their financial transactions.
Note: These EU-specific changes only apply to users in the European Union.
Bonus: Apple Podcasts gets a visual refresh with a redesigned Now Playing bar, while Stolen Device Protection offers more control over security settings.
Stay tuned for the official release of iOS 17.4 this week!