Apple has released the iOS 17.4 update for iPhone users worldwide, bringing new features, changes, and improvements to the operating system. The update is especially significant for users in the European Union, as it introduces major changes to the App Store, Apple Pay, Safari, and more. Here is what you need to know about the latest iPhone update.
App Store Changes in the EU
One of the biggest highlights of the iOS 17.4 update is the support for third-party app stores in the EU. This means that iPhone users in the region can now download apps from alternative sources, besides the official App Store. This change is a result of Apple complying with the EU’s Digital Markets Act, which aims to promote fair competition and innovation in the digital sector.
However, Apple still has the final say on what apps are allowed from third-party stores, and users will have to agree to a warning message before installing them. Apple also warns that using alternative app stores may pose security and privacy risks, and that it cannot guarantee the quality or functionality of such apps.
Another change in the EU is that Apple will now allow alternative payment options on the App Store, such as PayPal, Google Pay, or bank transfers. This means that users can choose how they want to pay for apps and in-app purchases, instead of being limited to Apple’s own payment system.
Apple Pay and NFC Changes in the EU
Another major change in the EU is that Apple will now open up Apple Pay and NFC to third-party mobile wallet apps, such as Revolut, N26, or Curve. This means that users can use these apps to make contactless payments with their iPhones, without having to switch to Apple Pay.
Apple will also allow third-party apps to access the iPhone’s NFC chip for other purposes, such as reading NFC tags, loyalty cards, or transit passes. This will enable more functionality and convenience for iPhone users in the region.
Safari Changes in the EU
Another change in the EU is that Safari will now offer a new default web browser selection screen, where users can choose which browser they want to use as their default. This means that users can switch from Safari to other browsers, such as Chrome, Firefox, or Edge, and have them open automatically when they tap on a web link.
Apple will also allow third-party web browsers to use web engines other than Apple’s own WebKit on the iPhone. This means that browsers can have more flexibility and performance in rendering web pages, and offer features that are not available in Safari.
Podcasts Transcripts
A new feature that is available for all iPhone users worldwide is the transcripts for the Podcasts app. This feature allows users to read the full text of a podcast episode, search for a specific word or phrase, and tap on the text to jump to a certain part of the episode. The transcripts are synchronized with the audio, and highlight each word as it is spoken.
The transcripts are available for podcasts in English, French, German, and Spanish, and are automatically generated by Apple after a new episode is published. The transcripts also have accessibility features, such as text size, contrast, and VoiceOver support.
New Emoji
Another new feature that is available for all iPhone users worldwide is the new emoji. The iOS 17.4 update adds some new emoji, such as a broken chain, a mushroom, a lime, a phoenix, and a head shaking horizontally or vertically. The update also adds the option to face some people and body emoji in either direction, such as a person running, a person in a wheelchair, or a person with a cane.
Security Features
Another new feature that is available for all iPhone users worldwide is the enhanced security features. The iOS 17.4 update improves the Stolen Device Protection, which now offers increased security at all locations. This means that if an iPhone is lost or stolen, it can be remotely locked and erased, and cannot be reactivated without the owner’s Apple ID and password.
The update also upgrades the end-to-end encryption in iMessage, which now uses a post-quantum cryptographic protocol (PQ3). This means that the messages are more secure and resistant to potential attacks from quantum computers in the future.
Battery Health
Another new feature that is available for all iPhone users worldwide is the improved battery health monitoring. The iOS 17.4 update adds more information and options to the Battery Health menu, such as the battery capacity, the battery age, the battery temperature, and the battery usage by app. The update also adds the option to disable the optimized battery charging, which is designed to extend the battery lifespan by reducing the time the iPhone spends fully charged.
How to Update to iOS 17.4
The iOS 17.4 update is compatible with all iPhone models that support iOS 17, from the iPhone 6s to the iPhone 13. To update to iOS 17.4, users can go to Settings > General > Software Update, and tap on Download and Install. The update requires about 2 GB of free space, and may take some time to complete.
Before updating, users should backup their iPhone using iCloud or iTunes, to avoid losing any data or settings. Users should also make sure that their iPhone is connected to a power source and a Wi-Fi network, to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted update process.
