Apple will release iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 simultaneously
Apple is preparing to simultaneously release its major annual software updates for iPhone and iPad this month. The news comes to us via Bloomberg’s renowned Apple journalist, Mark Gurman.
This simultaneous release marks a departure from last year’s staggered release of iOS 16 and iPadOS 16.
Gurman, known for his well-connected sources within Apple, has reported that the tech giant is close to finalizing iOS 17 and iPadOS 17.
The eighth beta versions of the latest operating systems are currently in circulation. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, these beta builds should be the near-final versions, signaling that Apple is getting closer to rolling out iOS 17.
Last year’s approach saw Apple launch iPadOS 16 on October 24, more than a month after iOS 16’s official release.
The company’s reasoning behind this staggered release of iPadOS was to allow additional time to refine the new “Stage Manager” application window management system; which received significant criticism during the beta development phase.
Some of the major features of iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 are:
- Contact posters: When you receive a call on your iPhone, you can see a poster-like image of the caller with their name, photo, and location. You can also create your own contact posters and share them with your friends.
- Live Voicemail: When someone leaves you a voicemail, you can view a transcription and listen to it live while it’s recorded.
- FaceTime voice message: If you miss a FaceTime call, you can send or receive a video or audio message from the caller.
- To wait for: This feature turns your iPhone into a smart display when it’s charging and placed horizontally. It can show you different information and widgets on the screen.
- Safari Profiles: You can create different profiles in Safari for different purposes, such as work, personal, shopping, etc. Each profile has its own favorites, history, tabs and settings.
- AirDrop improvements: You can now AirDrop files to multiple devices at once and also send files to devices not in your contact list using a QR code.
- Improved autocorrect and predictive text: The keyboard on iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 has improved autocorrect and predictive text features that learn from your typing habits and suggest words and phrases tailored to your context.
- DropName: This feature allows you to share your name, photo, and other information with people you meet using NFC or QR code. You can also scan other people’s NameDrop codes and add them to your contacts.
- Mood Journaling: This feature allows you to track your mood and emotions throughout the day using the “Health” app. You can also see how your mood is affected by various factors such as sleep, activity, weather, etc.
Apple enthusiasts can expect iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 to debut soon after the iPhone 15 series announcement, scheduled for Apple’s “Wonderlust” event on September 12. Apple will stream the event live on its website, YouTube and the Apple TV app.
The return to a simultaneous release of iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 will be welcomed by users and developers; ensuring consistency across Apple’s device ecosystem and delivering the enhanced features and seamless transition between iPhones and iPads that fans have come to expect.
(Image credit: Apple)
See also: Samsung announces SDC23 details
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