Apple on Wednesday seeded the first public betas of its upcoming iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 operating systems for testing.
Public beta testers who have signed up for Apple’s beta testing program can download the iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 updates by opening up the Settings app, going to “General,” tapping on the “Software Update” section and turning on the iOS 17 Public Beta option.
iOS 17 brings updates to the Phone, FaceTime, and Messages apps, easier sharing with AirDrop, and text input improvements that improve the speed and accuracy of typing. The new mobile OS also brings with it a new Journal app, and a new StandBy feature that allows users to view glanceable information when the iPhone is sitting down while charging.
The iPhone Phone app allows users to create their own custom contact poster using your photos of Memoji. The custom representation will then display on other folks’ iPhones when you call them.
A new Live Voicemail feature displays real-time live voice transcription on your iPhone’s lock screen, allowing you to make an informed decision on whether or not to answer a phone call.
FaceTime gains a new feature allowing you to leave a video message if someone isn’t available to answer the video call. The FaceTime call recipient will be notified about the video message at their convenience, much like a voicemail message.
The Messages app receives multiple updates in iOS 17, including new search filters, a new “catch-up arrow” allowing you to quickly jump to the first unread message in a long conversation, and easier inline replying with swipe to reply.
Audio messages are now transcribed in the messages thread, and inline location sharing is also available. Check-In provides updates about your location, letting family or friends know when you arrive to your destination safely.
A new “plus” button provides access to apps within Messages and stickers have been revamped, allowing you to create your own stickers and create and add motion stickers from your own live photos.
AirDrop content can be shared by bringing two iPhones close together and transfers can now be conducted in the background. A new “NameDrop” feature allows users to share their contact info by bringing two iPhones close together.
iOS 17’s new “Journal” app allows users to make daily journal entries, using people, places, activities, music, and photos. Daily reminders can be set to remember to write an entry.
A new “StandBy” mode displays the time, widgets, and other information when the iPhone is horizontal and is being charged.
Users can now simply utter “Siri” instead of the traditional “Hey Siri” command, users can issue follow-up commands that do not include the “Siri” trigger phrase.
For more information about iOS 17 and iPadOS 17, click here.
As usual, MacTrast and Apple both warn users to not install any betas on their daily driver iPhone or iPad. Instead, only install betas on a device set aside for testing purposes.
