As we all know , iOS 17 has officially been revealed by Apple at WWDC 2023, and it’s due to be released later this year – but how iOS 17 is different from iOS 16.
While iOS 16 introduced new key features and enhancement with· Lock Screen, iCloud Shared Photo Library, Messages etc, still iOS 17 boasts a number of quality-of-life updates with more enhancement like improved autocorrect tech, improved widget support, voice message transcription and even the ability to leave video messages when your FaceTime buddy doesn’t answer the phone.
The iOS 16 was compatible with all Apple iPhone 8 and above devices. However, this is not the case with iOS 17, as the Apple iPhone 8 won’t be receiving the iOS 17 update.
iOS 16 Vs iOS 17: Improved Features
Here is the list of major features and enhancements that have been improved with the update of the new iOS 17
1.1 The Journal app
The Journal app is essentially a new digital diary app that's coming with its way to the iPhone in iOS 17 later this year. The app aims to be our one-stop-shop for memories, goals, affirmations and practically anything else that we want to write down at the start or the end of our day.
The app allows us to import photos, videos, music, text and more, the app is also able to prompt us with specific questions to help us write more effectively about our experiences with proper customisation . It allows us to preserve specific events or memories, as well as practice gratitude and daily affirmations, and we can set alerts to remind ourselves to fill it on a daily basis.
1.2 Live Voicemail
One of the big new additions in iOS 17 may not sound that impressive on the surface, but it’ll be a boon for many users. It’s called Live Voicemail, and the idea is simple and very impressive too; as a recipient leaves a voicemail on our iPhone, we could see it dictated on screen in real-time.
This helps us find out the purpose of the call without having to answer – ideal if we want to avoid scam calls or unnecessary calls during or if we get a call during a busy work like meeting, study hour, family personal time and can’t answer – and, if we decide it is worthy of our time, we can connect to the call there and then. The recipient will then be reverted from our voicemail inbox to the call.
1.3 NameDrop
Name Drop is a new AirDrop-related feature that allows for easier contact sharing amongst iPhone users in the same location as you. To use this feature, both iPhone should have iOS 17 running.
The concept is a simple one; bring your iPhone near to someone who we want to share our contact details with and they’ll automatically be sent over. we’ll also receive their contact details at the same time. It includes information like names, contact images, email addresses and more, and also works between iPhones and Apple Watches as long as they’re both up to date with the latest software.
Even before sharing we could enable or disable Name & Photo sharing as per our preference. If we like to network and mingle at work events, this could be a real game-changer and finally put those annoying NFC business cards to bed once and for all.
1.4 Standby Mode
Standby Mode activation is a whole new way to have our iPhone not in use. This is essentially a mode that will make our iPhone look similar to a smart digital display when it's on and charging. Featured recent photos, time in large format, popular widgets and Live Studio and more.
Big problem? This seems like a feature that would ideally be on the iPad, but as of the time of writing, it's a feature that's available exclusively on the iPhone.
1.5 Check-In
We've all been in that scenario where we promise a friend or family member that we'll let them know we've gotten home safely (usually after a rough night) and then we completely forget once we get home. , Isn't it? It would be much easier if there were an automated way to do this – and apparently, Apple agrees.
With iOS 17, Apple is introducing new check-in functionality to the iPhone that essentially automates that process for us.
In short, this feature will automatically send updates to pre-selected contacts in our Messages app to let you know the feature when we access home. It tracks the route we take during our trip, and will alert our contacts if you're delayed, deviating from the route or not reaching home.
It will also share important information like our device's battery level, helping to provide peace of mind to anxious friends around the world.
