Apple’s 34th Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC 2023) begins today at 10:30 pm IST and will introduce a host of new software and hardware products. Among the long list of products, the announcement of iOS 17 is eagerly anticipated by Apple enthusiasts all around the globe. The upcoming version of Apple’s mobile operating system, dubbed “Dawn,” is expected to include a slew of new features as well as design and performance improvements.
In this article, we will delve into those exciting new features, discuss the expected release date, and provide a comprehensive list of iOS 17 compatible iPhones.
iOS 17 New Features
Apple has a reputation for delivering novel features with each new iOS update, and iOS 17 is no different; nevertheless, the list of improvements will be short this time. Because Apple appears to be concentrating all of its efforts at this year’s WWDC on the development of its much-anticipated Apple Reality Pro headset. Still, there will be enough to raise some eyebrows, so let’s have a look.
Smart Display Mode: When locked, your iPhone will become far more handy than before. The new Smart Display Mode feature will turn the locked screen from dark to a hive of useful widgets and tools. The new capability will almost certainly broaden and improve the use cases of your iPhone’s lock screen widgets. According to our understanding, the Smart Display Mode will only work in landscape mode and will allow iPhone users to check the clock, see calendar appointments, control the music player, check delivery status, and do a variety of other things. This type of capability will be quite useful on iPads.
Enhanced Privacy Controls: iOS 17 is also said to improve security and add more robust privacy options to compatible iPhones, giving consumers more control over the data and information they wish to share with app developers, social media apps, brands, and websites.
Redesigned Control Center: The current version of Control Center, which was introduced with iOS 11 in 2017, is scheduled to be significantly updated. The new Control Center is intended to have a fresh look and better customization options. Users may be given the ability to customize the various sections of the panel based on their preferences, making it even easier to access commonly used settings.
Dynamic Island Upgrades: The latest iOS version is also likely to make some adjustments to the Dynamic Island function. Notably, consumers worldwide have had conflicting reactions to Dynamic Island, and Apple aims to make it more user-friendly and useful in daily life.
Lock Screen Setups Sharing: Customizing the lock screen is fun and allows users to personalize their iPhones based on their needs. With iOS 17, users may be able to share their lock screen configurations with other iPhone owners.
Third-Party App Stores/App Sideloading: There are high chances of the introduction of app sideloading to iPhones, the most significant shift to the iOS ecosystem. After all these years, Apple may finally allow consumers to download and install software from sources other than the App Store. Android, Windows, and even macOS users have had the feature for a long time. There is still much doubt and clarity about how and when Apple will allow customers to install apps from sources other than the App Store; nonetheless, WWDC 2023 will provide the basis for the long-awaited functionality.
The list of enhancements and features does not end here. Other notable changes could include- improved Siri, an app library overhaul (custom folders support), lock screen maps, Apple Music interface changes, font size upgrades on the lock screen, New Focus mode filters, Health app UI changes, camera app upgrades, improved search/spotlight, Always-on display changes, and so on.
iOS 17 Release Date
While Apple has not officially announced a release date for iOS 17, history suggests that it will be available this fall. Apple typically unveils the latest iOS version in June at their annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), followed by a beta testing phase for developers and public beta testers. The final version is normally made available to the general public around September, corresponding with the introduction of new iPhone models.
iOS 17 Compatible iPhones
iOS 17 is anticipated to support a wide range of iPhone models, ensuring that a significant portion of Apple’s user base can benefit from the latest features. While the official list is yet to be confirmed, it is expected that the following devices will be compatible with iOS 17:
iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max
iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max
iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max
iPhone SE (2nd generation)
iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max
iPhone XR
iPhone X
iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus
iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus
It’s important to note that older iPhone models may not support all the new features due to hardware limitations. Apple typically provides a detailed list of compatible devices closer to the release date.
