Apple’s tradition of postponing certain features with new software releases continued with iOS 17, announced at WWDC 2023. The operating system, launched in September 2023, initially lacked several functionalities that iPhone users anticipated.
Initial and Subsequent Feature Releases
Thirteen features were held back at the time of iOS 17’s release, with their introduction staggered over subsequent updates. With the arrival of iOS 17.1, Apple integrated three features including NameDrop for iPhone-to-Apple Watch contact sharing, AirDrop over cellular, and a Favorites section in the Music app to enhance user recommendations.
December saw the release of iOS 17.2, which brought six more features, such as the Journal app for capturing life’s moments and enhancements to the Messages app, Apple News widget, PDF AutoFill, and Apple Fitness+. A special function for the iPhone 15 Pro, Spatial Video recording, was also included in this update.
The final features expected in the iOS 17 cycle were completed with the release of iOS 17.3 on January 22. This update introduced Apple Music Collaborative Playlists and the ability to use AirPlay in hotel rooms, among other additions.
Unannounced Feature Integrations
Apple’s official iOS 17 guide listed all the features, with two marked as forthcoming but later silently included, suggesting their integration during the beta cycles of iOS 17.1 or 17.2. These were the syncing of additional settings with Messages in iCloud and proximity sign-in for Apple ID.
Looking Forward to iOS 17.4 and Beyond
As Apple gears up for iOS 17.4 and offers a glimpse of iOS 18 in June 2024, the company can now focus on new features. Expectations for the next update include sideloading of third-party apps for European users and new emojis. BGR will continue to provide updates on these developments.
