Another year, another version of iOS graces the iPhone, and this time, iOS 17 brings a multitude of exciting updates. Apple seems to have packed a ton of new features into this release, making it one of the most significant updates in recent times.
While exploring the iOS 17 beta, I discovered numerous impressive additions that enhance the iPhone experience. In this review, I will delve into the top five features that caught my attention. However, it is important to note that some of these features rely on the presence of another iPhone in order to function optimally.
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NameDrop: Expanding the Capabilities of AirDrop
AirDrop, when it works, is a fantastic feature. iOS 17 takes AirDrop to the next level with NameDrop. This exciting addition allows users to share contact information simply by holding their iPhones close together.
The phones communicate, transferring a contact poster with the user’s name and details in a single touch. Notably, NameDrop lets users choose which information to share, including phone numbers, email addresses, and more.
Moreover, users can also share photos, videos, content links, and even initiate a share play session via AirDrop. Another noteworthy improvement is the ability to resume file transfers over cellular if the two iPhones are separated.
Personal Voice: An Accessibility Breakthrough
One of the most intriguing accessibility features in iOS 17 is Personal Voice. Although this feature was not highlighted during Apple’s presentation, it offers a remarkable capability. Personal Voice allows users to create a unique synthesized voice by recording a series of phrases on their iPhone.
This feature is specifically designed for individuals who may be at risk of losing their voice or have vocal cord limitations. By creating a personalized voice, users can interact with their device using a familiar tone that closely resembles their own. Personal Voice conducts all processing locally, ensuring privacy and security.
The Little Things: Polishing Stock Apps
Apple has always excelled at refining their stock apps, and iOS 17 continues this trend. There are numerous subtle yet impactful improvements throughout the system. The keyboard receives an upgrade with Transformer-based autocorrect and faster dictation, addressing previous issues.
Widgets are now interactive, allowing users to access information without opening the respective apps. Notably, there are several new features in Messages, including the convenient check-in feature, which simplifies location sharing with friends and family. While many of these enhancements rely on the presence of another iPhone user, they collectively contribute to a more refined user experience.
Standby Mode: Transforming the iPhone into a Smart Home Display
Standby Mode is a game-changer, particularly for iPhone users who already have a smart home setup. When an iPhone is placed horizontally and connected to a charger, it triggers Standby Mode, transforming the device into a smart home display. Users can customize the display with widgets, photos, and a clock.
The preset layouts resemble Apple Watch faces, and users can swipe between them to find the desired style. Siri also receives improvements, offering conversational capabilities and hands-free activation. Standby Mode bridges the gap between an iPhone and a smart home display, providing a convenient and multifunctional solution.
Phone App and FaceTime: Enhanced Communication Features
iOS 17 brings notable upgrades to the Phone app and FaceTime, enhancing the overall communication experience. Users can create personalized contact posters that display their chosen photo and contact details when making calls. This feature streamlines contact management and ensures consistent visuals across the board.
Additionally, iOS 17 introduces live voicemail transcriptions, allowing users to read transcriptions while a voicemail is being recorded. FaceTime also receives a video voicemail feature, enabling users to send recorded video messages if the recipient is unavailable for a FaceTime call.
Conclusion:
iOS 17 represents one of the most significant updates to the iPhone operating system in recent years. Apple has packed a plethora of impressive features into this release, further enhancing the overall iPhone experience.
From the expanded capabilities of AirDrop with NameDrop to the breakthrough accessibility feature of Personal Voice, iOS 17 offers a range of innovative functionalities. Additionally, the refinement of stock apps, the introduction of Standby Mode, and the enhancements to the Phone app and FaceTime contribute to a more seamless and enjoyable user experience.
While some features depend on the presence of another iPhone, iOS 17 remains an impressive update that sets the stage for future innovations.
Here is a list of compatible devices with iOS 17:
- iPhone 14
- iPhone 14 Plus
- iPhone 14 Pro
- iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 mini
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 mini
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone XR
- iPhone SE
- (2nd generation or later) More info>>
