Apple recently rolled out iOS 17.4 to iPhones and iPads including a ton of useful and fun new capabilities to explore.
First things first, you’ll want to confirm your device is compatible, since Apple is ending software support for iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X. For an iPad, you can check by your model’s generation to see if iOS 17 will be supported or not. If compatible, it is strongly suggested to first backup your device before installing the new system. When ready to install, you can go into your Settings, to General, to Software Update. Here you can Download and Install to begin the update.
While there are various new iPhone updates to learn about and start using, we picked a few fun ones to review. NameDrop is a feature that lets you put two iPhones next to each other to share contact information with the other person. You can choose what emails and phone numbers you want to share, plus, this action will also allow you to share content or start SharePlay activities together, like listening to the same music. Stickers are now built into the emoji keyboard, making them more accessible in third-party apps. You can create your own stickers, add effects, create Live Stickers, and even react to message bubbles with a sticker. There is also a new app called Journal where you can write down your thoughts and memories, and add photos, audio recordings, and music to your entries, or make goals.
Some other notable features include Live Voicemail, better Autocorrect, a Catch-Up Arrow, Hotel AirPlay, Post-Quantum Encryption with iMessage, among many more. There have also been several small improvements; for starters, if your car has CarPlay, it now has SharePlay, and anyone with an iPhone can control the playlist. An area of a map can now be saved to your device and used when Offline, including turn-by-turn navigation. Siri has gotten simpler, the Photos app can finally identify your furry friends, Apple Podcasts now offer transcripts to read while listening (or just to read).
Some of the new features in iPad include changes, updates, and refinements to Lock Screen, Safari, Stage Manager, and Freeform. To learn more about the new operating system, visit here for details.