Apple has released iOS 17.4, the latest software update for iPhone devices, with some major new features and improvements. The update, which is available for download now, brings support for third-party app stores in the EU, new emoji, transcripts for Apple Podcasts, and more. Here are some of the highlights of iOS 17.4 and how it will change your iPhone experience.
Third-party app stores in the EU
One of the most significant changes in iOS 17.4 is the support for alternative app marketplaces in the European Union. This means that iPhone users in the EU can now download apps from sources other than Apple’s official App Store, such as F-Droid, Aptoide, or Amazon Appstore. This is a result of the EU’s Digital Markets Act, which aims to promote fair competition and consumer choice in the digital sector.
Apple has previously argued that allowing third-party app stores would compromise the security and privacy of its users, as well as the quality and performance of its apps. However, the company has complied with the EU’s regulations and added a new option in the Settings app to enable or disable third-party app stores. Users can also choose their default browser in Safari, instead of being forced to use Apple’s own browser.
New emoji
Another exciting feature of iOS 17.4 is the addition of 18 new emoji, which include a variety of expressions, animals, objects, and symbols. Some of the new emoji are Head Shaking Horizontally, Head Shaking Vertically, Phoenix Bird, Lime, Brown Mushroom, and Broken Chain. There is also an emoji of a burning phoenix, which looks pretty impressive.
The new emoji are based on the Unicode 14.0 standard, which was released in September 2023. Apple is one of the first companies to adopt the new emoji, which will also be available on other platforms such as Android, Windows, and Twitter in the coming months.
Transcripts for Apple Podcasts
iOS 17.4 also introduces a new feature for the Apple Podcasts app, which is the ability to read transcripts of the episodes. Transcripts are written versions of the audio content, which allow users to follow along with the podcast and jump to the part they want to hear. Transcripts also make podcasts more accessible and searchable, as well as easier to share and quote.
The transcript feature is available for four languages: English, French, Spanish, and German. Apple says that transcripts will be automatically generated for new episodes shortly after they are published, while older episodes will be transcribed over time. Users can access the transcripts by tapping on the “…” icon on the bottom right corner of the player screen and selecting “View Transcript”.
Other improvements and fixes
iOS 17.4 also brings some other improvements and fixes to the iPhone, such as:
- Music recognition lets you add songs you have identified to your Apple Music Playlists and Library, as well as Apple Music Classical.
- Siri has a new option to announce messages you receive in any supported language.
- Stolen Device Protection supports the option for increased security in all locations.
- Battery Health in Settings shows battery cycle count, manufacture date, and first use on iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models.
- Call Identification displays Apple-verified business name, logo, and department name when available.
- Business updates in Messages for Business provide trusted information for order status, flight notifications, fraud alerts, or other transactions you opt into.
- Apple Cash virtual card numbers enable you to pay with Apple Cash at merchants that don’t yet accept Apple Pay by typing in your number from Wallet or using Safari AutoFill.
- Fixes an issue where contact pictures are blank in Find My.
- Fixes an issue for Dual SIM users where the phone number changes from primary to secondary and is visible to a group they have messaged.
How to get iOS 17.4
iOS 17.4 is compatible with all iPhone models that support iOS 17, which are iPhone 6s and later. To get the update, go to Settings > General > Software Update and tap on Download and Install. Make sure you have enough battery life and a stable Wi-Fi connection before updating. The update size may vary depending on your device, but it is usually around 1 GB.
iOS 17.4 is a game-changing update for iPhone users, especially those in the EU who can now enjoy more freedom and choice in downloading apps. The update also adds new emoji, transcripts for podcasts, and other enhancements that make the iPhone more fun and useful. If you haven’t updated yet, you should do it as soon as possible and enjoy the new features.
