Apple recently announced that iOS 17.4 is set to be released in March, with the update bringing new features and enhancements to the iPhone.
iOS 17.4 brings significant changes to the App Store in the EU, as well as Apple Podcasts transcripts, SharePlay for HomePod, and new emoji. The update also includes preparations for the upcoming launch of next-generation CarPlay later this year. Apple’s confirmation of the release of iOS 17.4 in March came with an acknowledgment of potential risks for Apple users and their devices due to new software mandates from EU regulators. Although Apple cannot eliminate these risks, it will take steps to mitigate them within the boundaries of the Digital Markets Act (DMA). These security fixes will be activated when users download iOS 17.4 or later, starting this March. More details on the new features and enhancements included in iOS 17.4 are described below.
Changes to the App Store in the EU
Apple has announced significant changes to the App Store, Apple Pay, Safari, and other aspects to comply with the Digital Markets Act in the EU. These changes will be rolled out with iOS 17.4 for iPhone users residing in the 27 EU countries. Key changes include allowing certain app marketplaces and alternative payment methods on the App Store in the EU. Other changes involve a new browser engine option in Safari, enabling third-party browsers to use web engines other than Apple WebKit on the iPhone, and permitting third-party mobile wallet apps to access the iPhone’s NFC chip for contactless payment functionality. For more information, refer to our comprehensive coverage of the EU changes in iOS 17.4 and Apple’s official overview.
Articles about Apple Podcasts
With iOS 17.4, the Apple Podcasts app introduces podcast transcripts, enabling listeners to read the entire episode, search for specific words or phrases, and click on the text to navigate to other parts of the episode while it plays. Apple mentions that transcripts will only be generated after a new feature is released. Transcripts are available for podcasts in English, French, German, and Spanish, and will be added to previous episodes in the podcast catalog over time.
SharePlay for HomePod
In iOS 17.4, Apple has expanded the SharePlay music control to HomePod speakers. This feature allows family and friends to control the music playing on your HomePod if you approve their request. Currently, it is limited to the Music app, and some users may not wish to subscribe to Apple Music in order to participate. When playing music on your iPhone, tapping the SharePlay icon at the bottom of the screen brings up a QR code, which someone can scan with the camera of an iPhone or Android smartphone to request access to the music. Even a scan of a QR code from a distance is sufficient, allowing people from various locations to join in. Apple had previously introduced a similar CarPlay feature last year, enabling everyone in the car to manage music playback via SharePlay with permission.
New Emoji
iOS 17.4 introduces several new emoji, including a broken chain, brown mushroom, horizontal and vertical head shake, lime, and phoenix.
Preparation for the Next Generation of CarPlay
