In June, Apple unveiled iOS 17, a substantial update bringing many fresh features and modifications to the iPhone.
iOS 17 introduces several notable features to the iPhone and can be easily installed through the Settings app under General → Software Update.
StandBy
StandBy is a new full-screen view presenting easily glanceable information designed to be viewed from a distance while the iPhone is on its side and charging. It showcases a customizable interface displaying a clock, calendar, favorite photos, weather forecast, music controls, widgets, and more. Tailored for placement on a nightstand, kitchen counter, or desk, it supports Live Activities, Siri, incoming calls, and larger notifications.
Contact Posters
iOS 17 permits users to create personalized Contact Posters that display on another person’s iPhone during an incoming phone call. These posters can feature a photo or Memoji with customizable font and background color options. This feature is available within the Phone app and is expected to extend to third-party calling applications.
NameDrop
NameDrop facilitates the easy sharing of contact information by bringing two iPhones close together. Both parties can select phone numbers or email addresses and even share their Contact Posters.
Live Voicemail
Live Voicemail offers real-time transcription on the screen as a caller leaves a voicemail. Users can pick up the call if they consider the voicemail important, and spam calls are instantly declined without transcription.
Swipe to Reply in iMessage
Within the Messages app, users can now swipe right on any message to send an inline reply, enhancing message interactions.
Interactive Widgets
iOS 17 introduces interactive widgets across the Home Screen, Lock Screen, and the new StandBy view. These widgets can perform actions like marking a reminder as completed, controlling music playback, and managing Home app accessories. Third-party apps will offer expanded functionality as they update to support this feature.
Improved Autocorrect
iOS 17 incorporates a state-of-the-art language model for word prediction, significantly enhancing autocorrection accuracy. On-device machine learning corrects mistakes intelligently, and users receive predictive text recommendations inline as they type.
Apple Maps Offline
Catching up to Google Maps, iOS 17 allows users to download maps for offline use. This feature enables turn-by-turn navigation, estimated time of arrival, finding places, and more when the iPhone is not connected to a network.
Stickers Drawer
A new stickers drawer centralizes all stickers, including Live Stickers, emojis, Memojis, and iMessage sticker packs. Live Stickers can be created by touching and holding an object in a photo.
“Hey Siri” Shortened to Siri
The voice command to invoke Siri has been simplified; users can now simply say “Siri” to activate the voice assistant on various Apple devices, eliminating the need for “Hey Siri” before each command.
