Apple unveiled iOS 17, the latest operating system for the iPhone, at the Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) 2023. This long-awaited update brings users a number of improvements and new features. Learn more about the exciting new features that iOS 17 brings in this article.
WWDC 2023 was peppered with speculation about iOS 17 and Apple did not disappoint users. Although it was originally suspected that this version would mainly be about maintenance and performance optimization, later rumors revealed that iOS 17 actually has more to offer than expected. There are exciting new features, especially in the area of accessibility and usability.
accessibility
Apple has focused on improving accessibility in iOS 17. Standout features include Live Speech and Personal Voice. Live Speech allows users to type messages during phone calls and in-person meetings that are then read aloud. Personal Voice lets users use machine learning to create a version of their own voice that can then be used in Live Speech. Additionally, Assistive Access makes it easier for users with cognitive impairments to navigate the interface, and Point and Speak, an updated version of the recognition mode in Magnifier, can read text labels that the user points to.
iOS 17 calls and messages
iOS 17 also brings improvements to calls and messages. The Contact Poster enables a new wallpaper for contacts. Live Voicemail lets users decide whether to answer a call while they are busy. The text of the voicemail is displayed on the lock screen so you can read the contents of the message before replying. Messages has been updated with a catch-up arrow that takes users to the first unread message in a conversation. There are also inline replies for threaded conversations, a new sticker interface, and an improved app drawer.
AirDrop
The popular AirDrop feature has also received some updates. NameDrop allows users to exchange selected contact information simply by bringing their iPhones together. In addition, AirDrop will continue the transfer over the Internet if users are out of WiFi range and want to transfer large files.
Intelligent Input
The keyboard in iOS 17 has improved autocorrect that now also focuses on sentence-level grammatical errors. Autocorrect behaves more sensibly when it comes to typing “duck words.”
iOS 17 diary
iOS 17 includes a new feature called "Journal" that allows users to create their own personal journal. On-device machine learning uses various data points such as music listened to, location data, and photos to make suggestions to users for new journal entries. With end-to-end encryption, on-device processing, and the ability to lock the journal, this feature offers a high level of privacy.
idle state
Another useful new feature in iOS 17 is the "Stand By" mode, similar to the Apple Watch's Nightstand mode. When the iPhone is charged and locked, this mode displays a clock. In addition, widgets, notifications and smart home notifications and controls can be used.
Goodbye "Hey" Siri
A significant change concerns the voice control feature Siri. In iOS 17, the "Hey" has been removed from the phrase "Hey Siri". Now it is enough to simply say "Siri". In addition, Siri will now also support back-to-back commands, making interaction with the virtual assistant more seamless.
iOS 17 Conclusion
With iOS 17, Apple continues its tradition of continuously improving the iPhone operating system and introducing new features. The update offers significant improvements in accessibility as well as calls, messages, AirDrop, keyboard input, diary function and Siri. Users can look forward to a variety of new features that make their iPhone experience even more enjoyable and user-friendly. iOS 17 is expected to be released in the fall along with the iPhone 15 series devices. Look out for this exciting update that takes the iPhone to a new level. Please note: The new operating system is available as a beta for registered developers starting today. The public release will take place in the fall of this year. (Image: Apple)
