Apple Releases Release Candidate Versions of iOS 17.4 and iPadOS 17.4 to Developers
Apple has made the release candidates of iOS 17.4 and iPadOS 17.4 available to developers for testing, signaling that the public release is imminent. The updates bring a range of new features and improvements.
iOS 17.4 and iPadOS 17.4 Release Candidates Seeded to Developers
Apple has released the release candidates (RCs) of iOS 17.4 and iPadOS 17.4 to developers for testing purposes. These RCs are the final versions of the updates, assuming no major bugs are found during this testing phase. It is expected that the public release will follow shortly after this.
Developers who are registered with Apple can participate in the beta testing by navigating to the Settings app, selecting Software Update, and enabling the "Beta Updates" option. It is important to note that a valid Apple ID associated with a developer account is required to download and install the beta updates.
What's New in iOS 17.4
iOS 17.4 brings significant changes to the functionality of the App Store and apps in the European Union. Notably, it enables the use of alternative app marketplaces and payment systems, supports third-party browser engines, and provides access to NFC for banks and third-party payment providers. These features are specific to the EU and will not be available in other regions.
In addition, iOS 17.4 introduces new features for gaming apps. Cloud gaming apps such as Xbox Cloud Gaming and Nvidia GeForce NOW will now be supported on iOS devices. Furthermore, mini games, chatbots, and plug-ins can now utilize the in-app purchase system. Other notable updates in iOS 17.4 include the addition of new emoji characters, podcast transcripts in the Podcasts app, SharePlay support with the HomePod, Stopwatch Live Activities, and more.
Enhancements and Bug Fixes in iOS 17.4
The iOS 17.4 update also includes various enhancements and bug fixes. Some of the key changes include:
- Music recognition now allows users to add identified songs to their Apple Music Playlists and Library, including Apple Music Classical.
- Siri can now announce received messages in any supported language.
- Stolen Device Protection offers increased security options in all locations.
- Battery Health in Settings displays battery cycle count, manufacture date, and first use information for iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models.
- Call Identification now shows Apple-verified business information when available.
- Business updates in Messages for Business provide trusted information for order status, flight notifications, fraud alerts, and other transactions.
- Apple Cash virtual card numbers enable payments with Apple Cash at merchants that do not yet support Apple Pay.
- Various fixes for issues, such as contact pictures appearing blank in Find My and phone number changes in Dual SIM mode being visible to groups one has messaged.
It is worth noting that certain features may not be available in all regions or on all Apple devices.
For detailed information on the security content of these updates, please visit the Apple support website.
