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iOS 17 release date prediction and features rumors

The iOS 17 software update may well be game changing for Apple users
Last Updated on June 14, 2023
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The tech world and iPhone users are abuzz as they eagerly await the arrival of Apple’s next major mobile operating system update: iOS 17. With a projected release date every day closer, speculations are already swirling around the features, compatibility, and enhancements that this update will bring. This article aims to compile all the current knowledge, rumors, and anticipations about iOS 17.

iOS 17 Release Date rumors

With a projected release date in mid-September 2023, the iOS 17 software update is heavy on the mind of Apple enthusiasts. The forthcoming edition of the company’s cornerstone operating system, used in its range of mobile devices, typically undergoes several preliminary stages.

In line with this established cycle, the inaugural developer beta of iOS 17 is earmarked for launch at Apple’s WWDC 2023. This annual event is an exciting occasion for developers and enthusiasts alike, keen to explore the new features and improvements in the upcoming iOS version.

Adding credibility to this timeline, Apple recently confirmed that the keynote presentation for WWDC 2023 will take place on June 5. Following the historical pattern of iOS updates, it’s anticipated that the public beta version will be released shortly after the developer beta.

iOS 17 features rumors

Apple is clearly aiming to augment user experience and bring a fresh feel to the familiar Apple ecosystem. One of the standout features is a redesign of the Control Center, aiming for improved user-friendliness and functionality, including better flashlight control and overall interface.

Significant changes to the lock screen, home screen, camera app, dynamic island, Siri, Apple Music App library, and UI are all also on the cards, promising greater customization and organization for users.

An exciting new addition is the introduction of Active Widgets. These will allow users to interact with widgets without needing to open the corresponding apps, ensuring a smoother and more efficient user experience when it comes to varied notifications.

New accessibility features have also been addressed with iOS 17. These include an improved text-to-speech tool, the ability to train your iPhone to emulate your voice digitally, a point-and-speak feature for the Magnifier app, and a simplified UI to enhance navigation.

iOS 17- expected supported devices

The question of which devices will support iOS 17 is currently a topic of speculation. Some rumors suggest that iOS 17 may drop support for older models like the iPhone 8 and possibly the iPhone X.

However, counter-rumors suggest that every device capable of running iOS 16 might be eligible for an iOS 17 upgrade. We anticipate that the WWDC 2023 event will offer clearer insight into this matter, among other exciting revelations about the upcoming iOS update.

iOS 17 Apps rumors

The Twitter account @analyst941 leaked that Apple is working not only on new apps for iOS 17 but it will also be launching a redesigned Control Center. This redesign may also see iPhones get better flashlight control and more lock-screen customization.

There are also rumors about Active Widgets, which would let users interact with widgets without having to open apps. But that’s not all, Apple is also preparing a lot of new apps for the iOS 17.

New Journaling App: A new journaling app is reportedly coming pre-installed with iOS 17. This app is expected to focus on improving mental well-being.

App Redesigns: Several Apple apps are reportedly getting a redesign in iOS 17. This includes the Apple Wallet app, the Health app, and a new wallpaper picker UI. The Wallet app is expected to see the most significant changes, with a new navigation bar at the bottom of the screen for easier access to Cards, Cash, Keys, IDs, and Orders.

Third-Party App Store Support: According to a tip from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple will begin laying the groundwork for sideloading apps with iOS 17. This means that users might be able to download apps hosted outside of Apple’s official App Store for the first time.

FAQ

Which devices will iOS 17 support?

Here are the devices that might be supported by iOS 17:

  • iPhone SE (2020)
  • iPhone SE (2022)
  • iPhone Xs
  • iPhone XR
  • iPhone 15
  • iPhone 14
  • iPhone 13
  • iPhone 12
  • iPhone 11

Is iOS 17 beta out?

You can expect Apple’s developer beta to be released this summer during Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). This event will take place on June 5th, which may well be when the official iOS 17 release date becomes clear.

iOS 17 Final thoughts

In conclusion, as the launch date of iOS 17 approaches, expectations are on the rise. The potential enhancements and features, as revealed by leaks and rumors, suggest that Apple is looking to provide users with an even more integrated and customizable user experience.

As we wait for the official announcement and the release of iOS 17, one thing is clear – Apple seems to be gearing up to deliver significant upgrades that could redefine the iPhone experience. While some of these rumors may not come to fruition, the anticipation certainly adds to the excitement of the upcoming release. We can’t wait to see what Apple has in store for us at the WWDC in June and the official launch of iOS 17 in September 2023.

Camilo is a contributor for PC Guide. He's been into tech since he was a teen, surfing through the web and local stores trying to find the cheapest way to play the latest Half-Life on his old Windows