Apple on Tuesday released iOS 17.4 for the iPhone, as well as iPadOS 17.4 for the iPad to the public. The updates can be downloaded and installed on compatible iPhones and iPads over-the-air by going to “Settings” -> “General” -> “Software Update.”
iOS 17.4 brings several changes to how the App Store and apps function in the European Union, allowing alternative app marketplaces on the iPhone, alternative payment systems on iOS and iPadOS, third-party browser engine support, and NFC access for banks and third-party payment providers. These are EU-only changes.
As for worldwide changes, Apple now allows cloud gaming apps, like GeForce NOW and Xbox Cloud Gaming, iOS 17.4 also brings new emoji characters, transcripts in the Podcasts app, and more.
Apple’s full release notes for the update are below:
Emoji
– New mushroom, phoenix, lime, broken chain, and shaking heads emoji are now available in the emoji keyboard
– 18 people and body emoji add the option to face them in either directionApple Podcasts
– Transcripts let you follow an episode with text that highlights in sync with the audio in English, Spanish, French and German
– Episode text can be read in full, searched for a word or phrase, tapped to play from a specific point and used with accessibility features such as Text Size, Increase Contrast, and VoiceOverThis update includes the following enhancements and bug fixes:
– Music recognition lets you add songs you have identified to your Apple Music Playlists and Library, as well as Apple Music Classical
– Siri has a new option to announce messages you receive in any supported language
– Stolen Device Protection supports the option for increased security in all locations
– Battery Health in Settings shows battery cycle count, manufacture date, and first use on iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models
– Call Identification displays Apple-verified business name, logo, and department name when available
– Business updates in Messages for Business provide trusted information for order status, flight notifications, fraud alerts or other transactions you opt into
– Apple Cash virtual card numbers enable you to pay with Apple Cash at merchants that don’t yet accept Apple Pay by typing in your number from Wallet or using Safari AutoFill
– Fixes an issue where contact pictures are blank in Find My
– Fixes an issue for Dual SIM users where the phone number changes from primary to secondary and is visible to a group they have messaged
Some features may not be available for all regions or on all Apple devices. For information on the security content of Apple software updates, please visit this website: https://support.apple.com/kb/HT201222
Additional release notes for the EU are:
Apps in the EU
Residents of the European Union will now have new options to:– Install apps from alternative app marketplaces
– Install web browser with alternative browser engines
– Manage your default web browser the first time you open Safari
– Use alternative payment options for apps in the App Store with the external purchases badge
– Some options require developer support