Just days post the stable iOS 17.3 release, Apple delights iPhone users with the iOS 17.4 developer beta, showcasing a blend of feel-good, functional, and regulatory changes. Let’s dive into what awaits your Apple device in this latest update, whether you’re opting for the developer beta or patiently awaiting the official release around March. It’s important to note that many of these exciting features are exclusively tailored for the EU region.
Rules Get a Makeover: Say Hello to New Ways to Get Apps
The highlight of iOS 17.4 lies in the regulatory changes aligning with the EU’s DMA requirements. For iPhone users in EU countries, a groundbreaking shift is on the horizon – the ability to access alternative app stores. Say goodbye to the exclusive reliance on the App Store; with iOS 17.4, users gain the freedom to download apps and games from a myriad of sources, providing a significant boost to user autonomy.
Empowering Choices: Pick Your Default Browser
An exclusive treat for EU users, iOS 17.4 introduces the option to select a default browser. While Safari has long been the go-to, this update allows users to choose a different browser of their liking, enhancing the overall user experience.
New Emoji Added: Express Yourself with New Emojis
iOS updates are synonymous with fun additions, and iOS 17.4 is no exception. Six new emojis join the party – a whimsical mushroom, a majestic phoenix, a nodding emoji for those agreeable moments, the essence of life captured in an emoji, and the assertive saying no emoji.
Stolen Device Protection: Best One in this update
In the realm of security, iOS 17.4 introduces an additional layer of defense against phone theft. Building upon existing security measures, this feature safeguards your iPhone from unauthorized access to critical applications. Thieves now face the challenge of not only entering your Lock Screen password but also navigating through a biometric authentication process involving Face ID or Touch ID.
To further deter theft, a 1-hour cooldown time is implemented, requiring additional biometric authentication before engaging in security-sensitive actions. This ensures a robust shield for your iPhone, protecting sensitive information and crucial applications from falling into the wrong hands.
Conclusion: Embrace the Evolution
As iOS 17.4 unfolds its array of features, it’s evident that Apple is not just pushing boundaries but reshaping the user experience. Whether you’re in the EU anticipating newfound freedom in app downloads or globally relishing the enhanced security features, iOS 17.4 marks a pivotal moment in your iPhone journey.