Exploring iOS 17: Apple’s Latest Milestone in Mobile Operating Systems

A Stable Evolution

As we delve into iOS 17, it’s clear that Apple has reached a point of stability and maturity that users have been longing for. If you’re upgrading from iOS 16, you’ll find yourself right at home, with a familiar interface and functionalities. While iOS 17 introduces several noteworthy changes, it does so without causing frustration—a testament to Apple’s commitment to user-friendly updates.

Low-Level Changes

At the operating system level, iOS 17 introduces two standout features: StandBy mode and interactive widgets. These additions enhance the user experience by providing quick access to information and improving device interaction.

StandBy Mode: This innovative feature allows users to utilize their phones even when not actively engaged with them. If you own a MagSafe dock, simply place your phone in landscape mode, and it will automatically display glanceable information. StandBy mode offers three options: two interactive widgets side by side, stacks of widgets, and a full-screen clock or a photo mode that shuffles through your photo library. This feature opens up possibilities for convenient, at-a-glance information access and is a significant convenience.

Interactive Widgets: The iOS 17 home screen welcomes the addition of interactive widgets. Over the years, widgets have become a favorite among iPhone users, and Apple has taken this popularity to the next level. Developers now have the ability to create widgets with primary forms of interaction, enhancing user engagement. Notable updates include the Home widget, allowing users to trigger home accessories with a tap, making tasks like adjusting blinds or locking doors more accessible. Apple’s content apps, including Music, Books, and Podcasts, have also been updated to incorporate interactivity.

Other low-level changes are more subtle. For instance, the keyboard has been completely overhauled with improved autocorrect using English, Spanish and French transformer language models. Autocorrected words are now underlined so you can quickly spot if your iPhone betrayed you behind your back (or cursor).

And dictation has received its annual upgrade. I was already using dictation for many text messages. Still, it’s even easier to use as you can now dictate a few words, type a few words, and dictate the rest of the sentence without switching back and forth between dictation and typing.

Image Credits: Apple

Enhanced User Experience

iOS 17 doesn’t stop at low-level changes; it extends its improvements to the user experience across various built-in Apple apps.

Messages: The Messages app receives a significant upgrade, aligning itself with the ever-evolving communication landscape. Users can now swipe on individual messages to reply inline within a conversation thread. The search feature has also been overhauled, making it easier to find keywords within conversations. Audio messages now support pause and resume, and they are automatically transcribed on your device, adding a new level of convenience.

FaceTime: Apple enhances FaceTime with two important features. Users can leave video messages when a recipient doesn’t answer, and FaceTime can be used on an Apple TV with your iPhone serving as a webcam and microphone. These additions enrich the FaceTime experience and offer more options for staying connected.

Phone App: Even the Phone app receives some thoughtful updates. Users can create a contact poster, a full-screen representation of themselves that appears during calls. This feature streamlines communication and adds a personal touch. Incoming calls can now be sent directly to voicemail, accompanied by a live voicemail transcription, granting users more control over their interactions.

Apple Maps: Apple Maps users will rejoice as iOS 17 finally adds support for offline maps, addressing a long-standing request from Google Maps users. This addition ensures that users can navigate confidently, even in areas with poor or no internet connectivity.

Image Credits: Apple

Beyond the Basics

The depth of improvements in iOS 17 is truly remarkable. While we’ve highlighted some of the major changes, there are countless other enhancements that contribute to an overall better user experience.

• AirDrop Enhancements: You can now initiate an AirDrop by bringing two devices close together, a feature Apple aptly calls “NameDrop.” AirDrop transfers can continue over the internet, allowing you to leave the room during a transfer. Additionally, FindMy now lets you share an AirTag with family members, enhancing item tracking capabilities.

• Safari Profiles: Safari introduces the ability to create different profiles with separate tabs, history, and cookies, catering to users’ need for organization and privacy.

• Password Sharing: iOS 17 simplifies password sharing, reducing the reliance on third-party apps like 1Password.

• Apple Music in CarPlay: Passengers can now join and control the music session when using Apple Music in a car with CarPlay, and no subscription is required.

• Apple Maps EV Routing: Electric vehicle enthusiasts will appreciate the improved EV routing in Apple Maps.

• AirPlay Suggestions: Your iPhone now suggests nearby AirPlay speakers and TVs for seamless connectivity.

• AirPods Enhancements: Apple has made various improvements to AirPods functionality, enhancing the overall audio experience.

• Redesigned Main Search: The main search feature has been redesigned, offering improved search capabilities that may take a little getting used to but ultimately work well.

• Mental Health Assessments: iOS 17 introduces new mental health assessments within the Health app, reflecting Apple’s commitment to user well-being.

• Journaling App: Apple’s upcoming journaling app, Journal, is set to launch later this year, providing users with a new tool for self-expression and reflection.

• Voice Activation: To streamline voice commands, iOS 17 introduces the ability to say “Siri” instead of “Hey, Siri.”

In conclusion, iOS 17 represents a substantial leap forward for Apple’s mobile operating system. With a focus on enhancing user experiences, introducing innovative features, and responding to user feedback, iOS 17 sets a new standard for what a mobile OS can achieve. As Apple continues to refine its ecosystem, users can look forward to even more seamless and intuitive interactions with their devices.