Apple announced the latest version of iOS during WWDC 2023. Apple will release version 17 sometime around the fall, but it was showcased today.
Like every year, the latest version of iOS includes many new features, but there are also numerous improvements. For example, autocorrect has been improved and learns from previously typed words. Even swear words or slang. There are more keyboard improvements, including inline prediction, where the next word you most likely will type is already shown.
Apple focuses on four things with iOS 17; 1) communication, 2) sharing, 3) intelligent input, and 4) new experiences. In the area of communication, Contact Poster has been introduced. Users can design their contact picture that the other person will see when you call them. You can use photos or memoji, and the poster is also used as a contact card.
Communication
Also new in this category is Live Voicemail. Calls going to voicemail are transcribed in real-time and displayed on the screen. Whether this service works outside the U.S. remains to be seen.
Messages also get several new features, including Catch-up to quickly catch up on missed messages, Inline location to easily share your current location, and Check In to let others know if you safely arrived at your destination. If not, iOS 17 can share your location and even battery status with others. In FaceTime, starting in iOS 17, it will be possible to leave a video message.
Sharing
Under the sharing category, a new feature has been added to AirDrop. Quickly exchange your phone number or contact information by bringing two iPhones to each other. The feature is called NameDrop and also works with an Apple Watch.
New experiences
Completely new is the app Journal. This works like a diary and provides space for photos you've taken. The app makes suggestions based on visited locations, the music you listened to, or pictures you shot.
Another new app is StandBy. Turning your iPhone to landscape mode transforms it into a night clock. The layout can be completely personalized with different clock hands, backgrounds, and widgets.
Other changes
In addition, Apple showed off numerous minor improvements, some of which follow here—summoning Siri by just calling "Siri," offline maps, and Photos that now recognize pets, including cats and dogs.
Apple will release iOS 17 in the fall of 2023 at the same time as the launch of the iPhone 15. Also current and older iPhones are expected to receive iOS 17.
