Apple iOS 17.4 RC version reveals new features as it rollout for devs and beta testers

Apple today released release candidates (RC) for iOS 17.4 and the changelog of the software update reveals all new features. It also means that the company is ready to conclude iOS 17.4 testing and release it for all iPhone users by early March.

iOS 17.4 is a major change for the Apple app ecosystem to comply with the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). It orders the company to open the App Store, iOS operating system, and in-app payment system for third-party developers.

One of the core changes includes app installations from third-party app marketplaces. A report shows that the iPhone will now ask users with a prompt to check the app’s details and source name before authorization.

The Cupertino-based tech company will now allow developers to add their payment system for in-app product sales. Furthermore, banking systems can use the iPhone’s NFC capabilities to develop their payment-related applications.

Despite bringing these changes to iPhones Apple said that such an extent would compromise user safety and interest. EU on the other hand argues that these capabilities are required for consumers and bring interoperability for market competitiveness.

iOS 17.4 RC:

Developers and Public beta testers can download the new software via Settings. From here go to “General” then “Software updates” and download the latest beta. You can opt-in for the Beta mode from the option available on the same screen.

Below you can the new features and changes coming with iOS 17.4.

Emoji

• New mushroom, phoenix, lime, broken chain, and shaking heads emoji are now available on the emoji keyboard
• 18 people and body emoji add the option to face them in either direction

Apple Podcasts

• Transcripts let you follow an episode with text that highlights in sync with the audio in English, Spanish, French, and German
• Episode text can be read in full, searched for a word or phrase, tapped to play from a specific point, and used with accessibility features such as Text Size, increased contrast, and VoiceOver

This update includes the following enhancements and bug fixes:

• Music recognition lets you add songs you have identified to your Apple Music Playlists and Library, as well as Apple Music Classical
• Siri has a new option to announce messages you receive in any supported language
• Stolen Device Protection supports the option for increased security in all locations
• Battery Health in Settings shows battery cycle count, manufacture date, and first use on iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models
• Call Identification displays Apple-verified business name, logo, and department name when available
• Business updates in Messages for Business provide trusted information for order status, flight notifications, fraud alerts, or other transactions you opt into
• Apple Cash virtual card numbers enable you to pay with Apple Cash at merchants that don’t yet accept Apple Pay by typing in your number from Wallet or using Safari AutoFill
• Fixes an issue where contact pictures are blank in Find My
• Fixes an issue for Dual SIM users where the phone number changes from primary to secondary and is visible to a group they have messaged

(via – 9to5mac)