Apple’s latest iteration of its mobile operating system, iOS 17.4, has been met with mixed reviews from developers.
Some see it as a promising update that brings new features and improvements to their apps, while others are more skeptical about the changes.
In this comprehensive guide, we will take a closer look at what’s new in iOS 17.4, how it compares to previous versions of the operating system, and what you can do as an iOS developer to make the most of these updates.
Getting Started with iOS 17.4
Before we dive into the specific features and changes that are new in iOS 17.4, it’s important to understand how to get started with the latest version of the operating system. Here are some steps you can take:
- Check for updates: Open the App Store app on your iPhone or iPad and go to Settings > General > Software Update. If an update is available, tap Install and follow the prompts.
- Back up your device: It’s always a good idea to back up your device before installing a new operating system, just in case something goes wrong. You can do this by connecting your iPhone or iPad to your computer using a USB cable or through iCloud.
- Develop for iOS 17.4: If you’re planning to develop for iOS 17.4, make sure to check the requirements for your app and ensure that it is compatible with the latest version of the operating system.
New Features in iOS 17.4
Now that we have covered the basics of getting started with iOS 17.4, let’s take a closer look at some of the new features and changes that are included in this update:
Improved Privacy Settings
Apple has made it easier for users to control their privacy settings on their devices. With the latest version of iOS, users can now turn off all data collection by apps and services that they don’t want to share information with. This new feature is called “App Library” and it allows users to see all of their apps in one place, making it easier to find the ones they use most often.
New App Library Feature
The App Library feature in iOS 17.4 is designed to make it easier for users to find the apps they need. With this new feature, all of your apps will be organized into different categories, such as Social, Productivity, and Entertainment. This makes it easy to find the apps you use most often and to discover new ones that you might find useful.
Enhanced Accessibility Features
Apple has made several improvements to the accessibility features in iOS 17.4, including improved color contrast, larger font sizes, and better support for assistive technologies like VoiceOver and Switch Control. These changes make it easier for users with disabilities to use their devices and to interact with apps and services.
New Security Features
iOS 17.4 includes several new security features that are designed to keep your device safe from malware and other threats. For example, the latest version of iOS includes a feature called “Phishing Detection,” which can help to identify potentially dangerous emails and links. It also includes an updated version of Apple’s Secure Enclave technology, which helps to protect sensitive data on your device.
Improved Siri Integration
Siri, Apple’s virtual assistant, has been updated in iOS 17.4 with new features that make it easier to interact with your devices using voice commands. For example, you can now ask Siri to take a screenshot of your screen or to read out the headlines from your favorite news apps. You can also use Siri to control smart home devices, like lights and thermostats.
Improved Audio Features
Apple has made several improvements to the audio features in iOS 17.4, including better support for Dolby Atmos and improved noise cancellation. These changes make it easier to enjoy high-quality audio on your iPhone or iPad, whether you’re watching a movie or listening to music.
Improved Camera Features
The camera app in iOS 17.4 has been updated with several new features that are designed to make it easier to take great photos and videos. For example, you can now use the Night mode on your iPhone or iPad’s front-facing camera to take selfies with better lighting in low-light situations.