iOS 17.4 beta update: Every New Feature Discuss in Detail

Mobile Topics
6 min readFeb 13, 2024

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Apple’s persistent pursuit of innovation takes another step forward with the release of the iOS 17.4 beta. This upgrade, set to be released in March, includes a slew of new capabilities that will change the user experience on iPhone and iPad. While some changes are tailored to specific regions, others have worldwide appeal, providing a more diverse and adaptable mobile landscape. Visit Mobile-topics.com to read full article in detail.

Embracing Choice in the EU App Store:

The European Union’s Digital Markets Act has disrupted the digital environment, and Apple has responded with iOS 17.4. Users in the EU will now be able to pick between various app shops, allowing for fresh experiences and increasing competition. This shift also benefits developers, who now have a revenue-sharing model that allows for greater flexibility and reach. This is a significant shift in the app distribution environment, which may pave the way for a more open and diverse iOS experience in the EU.

Beyond Safari: Unleashing Browser Freedom:

Safari’s long-held position as the default browser on iOS is being challenged in the EU. With iOS 17.4, users can choose their chosen browser from a larger selection, including Chrome and WebKit-based alternatives. This decision gives users more control over their browsing experience and accords with the EU’s aim for open ecosystems. Developers now have the ability to reach a bigger audience while demonstrating their novel browser solutions.

Tap & Pay Goes Cross-Platform:

Contactless payments for iPhones are set to get much more convenient. While Apple Pay has dominated the market, iOS 17.4 introduces third-party payment apps and banks in the EU. This means that users can utilize their favorite payment services with NFC technology, broadening their options and increasing competition in the digital payment industry.

Streaming Games Take Center Stage:

Gamers rejoice! The arrival of streaming game apps on the App Store marks a monumental shift. Services like Xbox Cloud Gaming and Nvidia GeForce NOW can now run natively on iPhone and iPad, offering access to a vast library of titles without the need for bulky downloads. This opens up a world of possibilities for mobile gaming, catering to casual and hardcore gamers alike.

Express Yourself with New Emoji:

Communication gets a fun boost with the addition of six new emoji in iOS 17.4. A refreshing lime joins the fruit collection, while an edible brown mushroom emerges for nature enthusiasts. The mystical phoenix brings a touch of fantasy, and the broken chain symbolizes solidarity. Nodding and shaking heads offer clear nonverbal cues, enhancing the expressiveness of your messages.

Siri Gets Smarter and More Conversational:

The interaction with Siri evolves in iOS 17.4 with the renamed “Messaging with ‌Siri‌” setting. This empowers Siri to read incoming messages aloud in various languages, streamlining communication and accessibility. This feature, coupled with the option to automatically send messages through voice commands, further blurs the lines between human and digital interaction.

Streamlined Navigation and Enhanced Entertainment:

Minor yet impactful changes improve the overall user experience. The “Listen Now” tabs in Apple Music and Podcasts get a facelift, transforming into familiar “Home” labels. The Safari search bar widens for easier text input, while the ‌Apple TV‌ app’s “How to Watch” section adopts a user-friendly list format. These subtle tweaks offer a seamless and intuitive user experience.

Protecting Your Most Prized Possession:

iOS 17.4 prioritizes device security with new options in the Stolen Device Protection section. While details remain under wraps, this suggests advanced features to deter theft and expedite device recovery. Keeping users’ data and identity safe remains a top priority for Apple, and this update is expected to bolster that commitment.

The Future of CarPlay Beckons:

Apple’s next-generation CarPlay, set to launch in the U.S., receives code hints in iOS 17.4. References to eight new ‌CarPlay‌ apps, including car cameras, charge management, climate controls, road closures, media playback, tire pressure monitoring, and trip planning, paint a picture of a truly integrated and intelligent driving experience. This glimpse into the future of CarPlay suggests enhanced convenience, safety, and personalization for drivers.

Sharing the Joy of Music with SharePlay:

Music lovers on HomePod and Apple TV can now join the SharePlay party. iOS 17.4 expands SharePlay music control to these devices, allowing authorized family and friends to participate in shared listening experiences. This opens up new avenues for social music enjoyment, fostering connection and shared moments.

Time at a Glance with the City Digital Clock Widget:

Home screens and lock screens gain a stylish and functional touch with the new City Digital Clock widget. This customizable widget displays the current time alongside the city name, offering a quick and aesthetically pleasing way to stay on top of time

Potential Impact, Future Implications and Conclusion:

iOS 17.4 is more than just a collection of new features; it represents a significant shift in Apple’s approach to app distribution, user choice, and openness. The EU-specific changes, while currently limited to that region, could set a precedent for further global adjustments.

  • Increased Competition and Innovation: The opening up of app stores and browsers could lead to increased competition and innovation in the app development and web browsing space. This could benefit both users and developers, offering more diverse choices and potentially lower costs.
  • Privacy Concerns and Security Measures: With more players entering the app market, ensuring user privacy and security becomes even more crucial. Governments and developers alike need to prioritize robust security measures and transparent data handling practices.

A Step Forward for iPhone and iPad Users

iOS 17.4 beta marks a significant step forward for iPhone and iPad users, particularly those in the EU. The EU-centric changes promote competition and user choice, while the global updates offer a range of enhancements across entertainment, communication, and convenience. While the final features and their impact remain to be seen, the beta paints a promising picture for the future of the iOS ecosystem.

FAQs Section:

1. When will iOS 17.4 be available to the public?

The public release of iOS 17.4 is expected in March 2024. Currently, it’s only available as a beta version for developers and public testers.

2. What are the biggest changes for EU users?

EU users will enjoy several key changes:
Downloading apps from alternative app stores: This opens up more choice and potentially lower prices.
Choosing a different default browser: No longer limited to Safari, you can pick Chrome or other WebKit-based browsers.
Using third-party payment apps for contactless payments: Apple Pay isn’t the only option anymore.

3. Can I play Xbox Cloud Gaming and Nvidia GeForce NOW on my iPhone now?

Yes! These streaming game apps are finally arriving on the App Store with iOS 17.4. Get ready to enjoy a huge library of games without bulky downloads.

4. What are the new emoji?

Six new emoji join the fun: lime, edible brown mushroom, phoenix, broken chain, nodding head, and shaking head. They add more personality and expressiveness to your messages.

5. What other hidden features might be in iOS 17.4?

The beta hints at exciting possibilities like advanced stolen device protection and next-generation CarPlay features with deeper integration into your car. Stay tuned for more discoveries as the update nears its public release!

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