iOS 17.4 ushers in a host of enhancements to elevate your iPhone usage, introducing new features and improvements. Among these updates are transcripts in the Podcasts app, heightened security measures for iMessage, and more. Let’s delve into the comprehensive overview of the transformations iOS 17.4 brings to your device.
Revamped CarPlay Instrument Cluster Experience
Connect your iPhone with your vehicle through the Apple CarPlay system, offering enhanced control over your car’s instrument cluster. On select vehicles equipped with CarPlay instrument cluster displays, you now have the flexibility to customize the information displayed while navigating. For instance, choose to have turn-by-turn navigation behind the steering wheel while setting the main display to showcase your trip progress. Note that on CarPlay head units with a single display, a choice between the two configurations is required.
Fresh Emoji Palette
iOS 17.4 introduces a vibrant collection of 118 new emojis. While many are variations of existing ones, the notable additions include emojis representing a phoenix, a broken chain, head movements in different directions, a green lime, a brown mushroom, and four non-gender-specified family emojis. Users can now personalize their messaging experience with these expressive additions.
Podcast Transcripts in Apple Podcasts
Enhancing the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iOS 17.4 introduces support for automatic transcripts. These transcripts are now available for all podcasts by default, allowing users to tap the Transcripts icon in the bottom-left corner while listening. The addition of a Search button facilitates word searches within the podcast, enabling users to navigate directly to specific portions.
Quantum-Resistant Encryption for iMessage
To bolster security against potential threats from quantum computers, iOS 17.4 incorporates Apple’s new PQ3 algorithm into iMessage. This algorithm defends against “harvest now, decrypt later” attacks, offering protection by default. Following the update to iOS 17.4, all iMessage conversations will seamlessly transition to the new protocol.
App Store Adjustments for EU Users
EU iPhone users can now explore alternative app stores beyond the App Store. These marketplaces, however, must undergo Apple’s approval process before becoming usable on iPhones. Once approved, users gain the freedom to download a variety of apps, even those that may violate App Store guidelines. Users can also designate a non-App Store marketplace as the default option on their devices.
Additional Highlights
iOS 17.4 introduces minor changes, including tweaks to the Battery Health section for iPhone 15 models. The status indicator now replaces the percentage display, visible in Settings > Battery. Stolen Device Protection features now offer the option to enforce a security delay even in familiar locations. Other updates include a new City Digital Clock widget and Live Activity support for the Stopwatch feature in the Clock app.
we strongly recommend updating your iPhone to iOS 17.4 to benefit from these quality-of-life improvements, reflecting Apple’s ongoing commitment to delivering a seamless and secure experience for iPhone users.