The launch of iOS 17.4 will mark a before and after in the era of the iPhone
Apple has released the first beta version of iOS 17.4 with a series of new features that will completely revolutionize the iPhone operating system. As we have been anticipating for months, with this software update Apple will welcome alternatives to the App Store. But It is not the only historical change in iOS 17.4. There is more, much more.
In addition to the well-known sideloading, Apple has implemented many other new features in iOS 17.4. In this summary we will tell you all the news that comes with the new software update. There is a lot to talk about.
From a collection with more than 100 new emojis to a list of web browsing applications to use by default in iOS 17.4. Let’s start!
What’s new in iOS 17.4
Before starting to list all the new features of iOS 17.4, it is imperative to highlight that this software update is in beta phase, but if you wish, you can now try all the new features by installing iOS 17.4 beta from Settings > General > Software update on your iPhone.
Alternatives to the App Store
With iOS 17.4, Apple has introduced new app distribution options with third-party stores. Now the App Store will no longer be the only one marketplace of the iPhone. Users will be able to download apps from alternatives to the App Store and developers will be able to use a new API architecture to create their commission-free app stores.
New payment methods
In parallel with the arrival of third-party app stores, Apple will also approve alternative payment methods within App Store applications. In-app purchases can be made via links or directly in the application. Developers will have a 3% discount on commissions.
New default web browsers
Apple has allowed iPhone users to select default web browsing apps other than Safari for years. But so far the process was limited to web browsers developed with Webkit. In iOS 17.4 it will be possible to change Safari for another default web browser from a list of the most popular web browsing apps in the App Store that will appear when users open Safari.
Video game platforms
The App Store will also accept streaming video game applications. This means that iOS 17.4 users will be able to download applications from the App Store that contain their own catalog of video games como Xbox Cloud Gaming.
New emojis
Apple has added a selection of more than 100 new emojis for iOS 17.4. Furthermore, you can also change the orientation or direction of emojis such as the person walking, the person running, the person using a cane, etc.
Messages with Siri
The functionality to send automatic messages in Siri and Search has been renamed to “Send messages with Siri” in iOS 17.4 and a new option has been implemented to allow Siri to read messages in a specific language like Spanish, German, French, Italian… This setting will not change the native language of Siri on your iPhone.
Podcasts
Another novelty lies in the Podcasts application of iOS 17.4, which now offers the possibility of reading podcast transcripts, a feature similar to song lyrics in Apple Music. Additionally, playback controls have been improved and the “Listen Now” category in the main menu has been renamed to “Home.”