With the arrival of iOS 17.4, Apple is about to implement a series of improvements and new functions that promise to enrich the experience of iPhone and iPad users. From the inclusion of streaming game applications to improvements in interactions with Siri and new tools for the security of our devices, this update is packed with changes. Here we tell everything we need to know about this update that will be available in March.
Changes in Gaming Applications
The update will allow, for the first time, the presence of streaming game applications such as Xbox Cloud Gaming and Nvidia GeForce NOW directly in the App Store. This marks a significant change, as until now, these services were only accessible from the web.
New Emoji
As part of the Unicode 15.1 update, approved in September 2023, iOS 17.4 introduces a variety of new emoji, including a lemon, a brown mushroom, a phoenix, a broken chain, and head gestures indicating "yes" and "no".
Messaging with Siri
We can already choose which app Siri uses to send a message, but, now, with this update, there's a new option for Siri to read incoming messages in specific languages such as Spanish, French, German, Chinese, among others. This allows us to maintain a conversation through Siri in languages that we do not necessarily use to address the assistant. Ideal for being able to communicate freely without considering the language of the interlocutor. In addition, the "Automatically Send Messages" setting has been renamed to "Messaging with Siri".
Podcast Transcription and Changes in Music
The Podcasts app will now offer episode content transcriptions, so we can read it in addition to or instead of listening to it. A function similar to what Apple Music offers us with song lyrics, making podcast listening even more flexible. In addition, the "Listen Now" tabs in Apple Music and Podcasts are now titled "Home".
Protection for Stolen Devices
To further improve our security, a new option has been introduced in the "Stolen Device Protection" section to require a security delay always or only when we are away from familiar or known locations.
Support for Next-Generation CarPlay
iOS 17.4 lays the groundwork for the next generation of CarPlay, which will launch in the U.S. later in 2024. This update will allow us to fully customize our car's interface through CarPlay, being able to place the car's widgets in different parts of the screen and adapt the dashboard to our needs.
SharePlay and the Apple TV App
The update expands SharePlay music control to the HomePod and Apple TV, now allowing family and friends to control the music on the HomePod and Apple TV with the owner's permission. Additionally, the update brings a new interface for the "How to Watch" section in the Apple TV app, now in list format.
Stopwatch Live Activity and Aesthetic Change in Safari
The "Live Activity" function for the stopwatch is added in this version, allowing users to see and manage the stopwatch directly from the Dynamic Island and the lock screen without needing to open the app. Additionally, the URL/search bar in Safari will be wider.
Clock Widget and Purchase History in the App Store
iOS 17.4 introduces a digital clock widget for cities, ideal for those who need to follow different time zones. In addition, the purchase history in the App Store is improved, now showing a complete record of music purchases, subscriptions, app purchases, and content acquired with an Apple ID, all accessible from a more organized and detailed interface.
iOS 17.4 is full of new features designed to improve our experience as users in multiple aspects, from entertainment to security. With its release scheduled for March, Apple users have many reasons to look forward to this update.
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