Apple is expected to make a significant announcement during its WWDC 2023 keynote on Monday, June 5. The announcement will revolve around the upcoming iOS 17 software update for iPhones. According to rumors circulating beforehand, iOS 17 will introduce a range of new features and changes to enhance the user experience.
Following the keynote, members of Apple's $99/year Apple Developer Program can anticipate immediate access to the iOS 17 beta. The general public can expect a public beta version to become available in July through Apple's free Apple Beta Software Program. The wider release of iOS 17 is projected for September, aligning with the launch of new iPhones.
Please note that some of the features and changes mentioned below may be introduced in later iOS 17 versions, such as iOS 17.1 or iOS 17.2.
New Lock Screen Mode
iOS 17 will introduce an enhanced Lock Screen Interface that provides users with essential information while their iPhone is locked and placed horizontally. This mode, as described by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, resembles a smart home display and will display calendar appointments, weather forecasts, and notifications.
Next-Generation CarPlay
Apple previewed the next generation of CarPlay during WWDC 2022. The updated CarPlay will support multiple displays, widgets, and integration with vehicle functions like the instrument cluster, climate controls, and FM radio. Automakers such as Acura, Audi, Ford, Honda, Jaguar, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Porsche, Volvo, and others have committed to supporting the new CarPlay experience.
Wallet App Revamp
iOS 17 will bring significant upgrades to Apple's built-in Wallet app, including improvements to features like Feature Wallet, Find My, SharePlay, and AirPlay. Specific details have not been disclosed yet. The revamp aligns with the continuous addition of new functionalities to the Wallet app, such as Apple Pay Later Financing and an Apple Card Savings Account in partnership with Goldman Sachs.iMessage Contact Key Verification
Apple previewed the iMessage Contact Key Verification security feature, slated for a global launch in 2023. This feature will provide additional verification for users facing digital threats, ensuring they are exclusively communicating with intended recipients. Users will be alerted if malicious actors breach cloud servers and attempt to eavesdrop on conversations. Contact Verification Codes can be compared in person, on FaceTime, or through secure calls for added security.
New Accessibility Features
iOS 17 will introduce new accessibility features for iPhone users. One such feature is Assistive Access, a simplified mode that provides limited access to essential Camera, Photos, Music, Calls, and Messages apps, thereby reducing cognitive load. Additionally, Personal Voice will enable individuals at risk of losing their ability to speak to create a voice that reflects their own in just 15 minutes, enhancing communication with others.
Journal App
Apple is developing a journaling app for the iPhone that will provide note-taking capabilities and a stronger social element to the device. This app is expected to compete with existing journaling apps like Day One and will debut alongside iOS 17.
Mood Tracking in Health App
iOS 17 will introduce tools in Apple's Health app for tracking emotions and managing vision conditions. Additionally, the Health app is anticipated to make its debut on the iPad this year as part of iPadOS 17.
Find My Enhancements
iOS 17 will bring enhancements to Apple's Find My app, including integration with Apple's rumored journaling app and improvements to location services. Further details regarding these enhancements have not been revealed.
App Sideloading in EU
To comply with the European Union's Digital Markets Act, Apple intends to enable app sideloading on iPhones in European Union countries by March 2024. This change allows users to install apps from sources other than Apple's App Store. The implementation of app sideloading is expected as part of an iOS 17 update, possibly iOS 17.1 or a subsequent version.
Unwanted Tracking Alerts Expansion
As part of an industry initiative led by Apple and Google, a proposed specification aims to combat the misuse of Bluetooth item trackers for unwanted tracking of individuals. Apple plans to expand its existing AirTag-like unwanted tracking alerts in a later version of iOS 17.
We Appranking, a smart app promotion platform, are now inviting some valuable developers and app promoters to try our features FOR FREE.
With our website, you can get the latest market news and quickly understand your competitor's strategy, market data, etc. to IMPROVE YOUR APP'S RANKING within the app stores.
Click Appranking to try all our features for free and save up to $399!
Empower your team with our App Marketing Intelligence
Free forever. Cancel anytime.