Even though Apple is still adding new features to its months-old iOS 16, users are already waiting for its next update. iOS 17 is still unannounced, but there are already some hints on what to expect from the operating system, including some features and which iPhone models should receive the update.
When Will iOS 17 Be Released?
Apple’s yearly iOS release history indicates we can expect another major update in 2023. Considering that the company usually drops these updates in September, that’s the most likely release date month for iOS 17.
Watch for all the initial details, and the first beta version, to show at the Apple WWDC 2023, probably in June. During this phase, you’ll be able to use iOS 17 before it’s widely available. You’ll just need to sigh up for the Apple Beta Software Program (it’s free).
After the beta stage, and in line with the iPhone 15 release, iOS 17 will be available for public use, but only if your phone is compatible (there’s a list below). It’ll install automatically, or you can check for iOS updates manually via Settings > General > Software Update.
iOS 17 Price
iOS updates are free. If your phone is compatible with this update, you’ll be able to install it at no cost.
iOS 17: New Features & Expectations
Apple has been working on some exclusive features in the past. For example, the technology giant finally introduced Always On Display in the latest iPhone 14 Pros.
Lately, Apple has released a lot of customization features that were earlier available only on Android. Lock screen widgets, focus mode, live activity etc. were some of the highlighted features in the recent iOS 16.
However, there’s a lot more that Apple needs to give in iOS which Android has had for years. Below are four key features and improvements that Apple might bring for iPhones with the iOS 17.
1. Call Recording
This has to be one of the most demanded features by iPhone users. A feature that has served Android users for almost a decade, is still a dream for iOS users to date. Apple might likely allow Call Recording with iOS 17.
2. Improved Notifications
Reading and Managing notifications on iOS is messy, especially on the lock screen. It is far more convenient to access & manage them on Android. With iOS 17, it is expected that Apple will take some steps to improve this experience.
3. Dual Apps
App cloning is a very useful tool that allows users to create clones of applications such as WhatsApp so that they can access multiple accounts.
4. Split Screen
The iPhone supports multitasking in the form of Fast App Switching, but it doesn’t let you split apps across the screen like on the iPad. It save time in repeatedly switching apps.
These are only a few of the many expected upgrades that users have been demanding for years.
Apple is not always the first one to introduce new features, but whenever it does release any, it’s likely to be more seamless and consistent than any other competitor.
iOS 17 Supported Devices
The latest iPhone models from the last several years will probably be compatible, but we won’t know for sure which devices will run iOS 17 until Apple provides those details.
For reference, iOS 16 works on all the following, so iOS 17 will drop for nearly all the same models:
- iPhone Pro Max (11 and newer)
- iPhone Pro (11 and newer)
- iPhone (11 and newer)
- iPhone mini (12 and newer)
- iPhone SE (2nd generation and newer)
- iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max
iOS 16 also works on iPhone 8/8 Plus and iPhone X, but since those phones came out in 2017 and the company doesn’t usually continue to provide OS updates to devices that old, they might not be eligible for iOS 17.
