Apple has released the first iOS 17 public beta, the next major version of its mobile operating system.
The public beta is available to anyone who wants to try out the new features and bug fixes ahead of the final release, which is expected in the fall.
What is new on iOS 17 public beta?
The iOS 17 public beta includes a number of new features, including:
- Lock Screen with widgets and more customization options
- Messages app with improved features for group chats and audio messages
- Photos app with new editing tools and a redesigned Memories feature
- Health app with new features for tracking sleep and activity
- Wallet app with support for digital car keys and more
New lock screen
The new Lock Screen in iOS 17 public beta is a major overhaul of the previous version. It now includes widgets, which can be added to the Lock Screen to provide quick access to information such as the weather, news, and your calendar. You can also customize the font and color of the clock, and even set different Lock Screens for different times of day.
For example, you could have a Lock Screen that shows the weather and your calendar during the day, and a different Lock Screen that shows your favorite photos at night.
New Messages app
The new Messages app in iOS 17 public beta includes a number of new features, including the ability to pin important conversations to the top of your Messages list, the ability to send and receive audio messages that play in the background, and the ability to use Live Text to transcribe messages from photos.
The ability to pin important conversations is a great way to make sure that you don’t miss any important messages. The ability to send and receive audio messages that play in the background is a great way to stay in touch with people while you’re on the go. And the ability to use Live Text to transcribe messages from photos is a great way to get the gist of a message without having to read it all.
New Photos app
The latest update of the Photos app in the iOS 17 public beta brings a range of new enhancements. These include advanced editing tools that allow you to adjust the color, contrast, and brightness of your photos.
Additionally, the app introduces the innovative Memories feature, which automatically generates captivating slideshows using your photos and videos. Furthermore, it enables you to easily share these Memories with others.
New Health app
With the release of the Health app in the iOS 17 public beta, several exciting additions have been made.
These include the capability to monitor and analyze your sleep stages, establish sleep goals, and gain valuable insights into your sleep patterns.
New Wallet app
In the iOS 17 public beta, the Wallet app has received numerous upgrades. Noteworthy features include the option to utilize your iPhone as a digital car key, allowing you to effortlessly start your car without the need for physical keys.
Furthermore, the app now enables you to securely store essential documents such as boarding passes, event tickets, and other important items, ensuring that all your vital information is conveniently accessible from one place.
Learn more about iOS 17 public beta from the Apple website.
iOS 17 public beta-compatible devices
The iOS 17 public beta is compatible with the following devices:
- iPhone 8 and later
- iPod touch (7th generation)
- iPad Pro (all models)
- iPad (6th generation and later)iPad mini (5th generation and later)
- iPad Air (3rd generation and later)
How to install iOS 17 public beta
To install the iOS 17 public beta, you will need to have a compatible device and a valid Apple ID that is registered to the Apple Beta program.
You can then follow these steps:
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update
- Tap “Beta Software Profile” and then tap “Download and Install”
- Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the installation
The iOS 17 public beta is a great way to try out the new features and bug fixes that are coming to iOS 17.
Note: iOS 17 public beta is still under development, so there may be some bugs or other issues.
If you are not comfortable installing beta software, you may want to wait until the final version of iOS 17 is released.
Featured image: Photo by Xavier Wendling on Unsplash.