Apple has recently announced iOS 17, the newest edition of its operating system, at the WWDC 2023 conference. This innovative software will be available for iPhone models starting from the iPhone XS and XR onwards, and is set to officially launch in September to coincide with the anticipated introduction of the iPhone 15.
iOS 17 is introducing ‘Personalized Contact posters’, a feature that adds a touch of personalization to the Contacts app, building on the lock screen customization of iOS 16. Users can select a personal photo or a Memoji and add their name in their chosen font to create a Contact Poster. This poster can then be effortlessly shared with other iPhone users through the newly introduced NameDrop feature.
Next, the new ‘Live Voicemail’ feature allows users to see a real-time transcription of their caller’s message when a call goes to voicemail. This feature allows users to quickly identify who is calling and the importance of the call.
In terms of communication, Apple has redesigned the way we connect with FaceTime video messages. Now, if you are trying to FaceTime someone and they don’t answer, you can leave a video message that the recipient can view when they next log in. This feature ensures that important information or cherished moments are always shared, even when a call can’t be immediately answered.
Another critical feature in this update is the ‘Check In’ functionality. Through iMessage, users can inform a chosen contact when they have safely arrived home from an activity. If the user does not reach their destination within the expected time, the Check In feature will automatically send an alert to the chosen contact with the user’s location, iPhone battery level, and cell signal.
Sticker usage on the iPhone has also been enhanced in iOS 17. Now housed in an expandable menu, stickers not only support emojis but also personal images from users’ photos, both still and animated. This feature extends to third-party apps as well, allowing users to use their personalized stickers across different platforms.
The AirDrop/NameDrop feature in iOS 17 provides a swift and efficient way of sharing files between iPhones or between an iPhone and an Apple Watch. This feature is also integrated with the NameDrop feature, making it easier to share contact details and set up SharePlay activities.
The machine learning behind autocorrect and dictation for the iPhone’s keyboard has also been refined. These updates result in more accurate autocorrect and dictation that adapt better to individual writing styles.
iOS 17 also introduces ‘Journal’, a new default app that serves as a digital diary. It collects data from your daily activities, such as photos taken, places visited, contacts spoken with, and music listened to. This data is then bundled into prompts for reflection, enabling users to better appreciate and understand their daily life.
The ‘StandBy’ feature transforms your iPhone into a smart display. It offers multiple clock styles, widget options, weather details, and a slideshow of photos. The display also includes a low-light mode that turns the display red, perfect for nighttime use. Siri is still available for hands-free controls with this feature.
Siri has been revamped in iOS 17, with the traditional “Hey Siri” command now simplified to just “Siri”. This change allows for smoother interaction with Apple’s digital assistant and makes it easier to ask follow-up questions or make requests.
Finally, Apple Maps users can now download areas for offline use, a feature that brings it in line with Google Maps. This means users can still navigate their way around even when they don’t have access to Wi-Fi or cellular data.
In summary, iOS 17 is set to deliver an array of exciting new features and enhancements designed to improve the overall user experience on the iPhone. From communication improvementsto safety features and enhancements to Siri, there’s much to look forward to with this update. With these new additions and improvements, Apple continues to demonstrate its commitment to evolving the iPhone experience for its users. Users can look forward to trying out these features for themselves when iOS 17 rolls out in September.
