iOS 17.4 Release Date: Exactly When Apple Will Change The iPhone Forever
Apple's upcoming iOS 17.4 update is expected to be a game-changer for the iPhone, packed with new features and enhancements. Here are the latest details and the predicted release date.
The EU Changes
In compliance with the Digital Markets Act, Apple will introduce alternative app marketplaces and easier access to web browsers other than Safari for users in the European Union. Additionally, there will be support for other payment methods and the capability to set default NFC and wallet apps in Apple Pay.
These changes, while currently limited to the EU, have the potential to impact other regions as well, as governments around the world may consider similar opening up measures.
Home Screen Web Apps
Due to security and compatibility issues with other browser engines, support for home screen web apps will be removed in the European Union as a result of the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
Quantum Computing For iMessage
Apple is introducing PQ3, a groundbreaking post-quantum cryptographic protocol, to enhance the security of iMessage. This protocol will future-proof messaging against hacking methods that are not even possible yet.
New Emoji and Stolen Device Protection
The iOS 17.4 update will introduce a few new emoji, including a phoenix, smiley faces, a mushroom, a lime, and a breaking chain. Additionally, the update will enhance the stolen device protection feature introduced in iOS 17.3.
Other notable updates include an upgraded Battery menu, a full-color welcome screen, transcript support for Apple Podcasts, expanded language support for Siri, an upgrade to CarPlay, and a voice command change for German users.
Release Date
The release date for iOS 17.4 is influenced by the implementation of the Digital Markets Act, which takes effect on Wednesday, March 6. It is likely that Apple will release the update on March 5, their usual preferred release day, or on Monday, March 4. The anticipated release time is 10 a.m. Pacific time.
