Today marks the release of iOS and iPadOS 17.4, representing a significant update to Apple’s operating systems, particularly in response to regulatory changes in Europe. The latest iOS release will come to users globally although some would get it earlier than others as Apple has done over the years.
Major Changes for EU Users Apple’s response to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) is at the forefront of iOS 17.4. The update introduces three major changes for users in the EU:
New Default Browser Prompt: EU users will now encounter a prompt to choose their default web browser upon opening Safari for the first time after updating. This requirement aims to offer users greater choice and aligns with the DMA’s emphasis on fair competition. The EU has accused Apple of promoting its own browser on its devices above those of competitors although this may not make much sense to regular iPhone and iPad users. I say this because it is easy these days to get other browsers even as default on Apple devices than it used to be say about five years ago.
Support for Third-Party Browser Engines: iOS 17.4 now permits third-party browsers to run on engines other than Apple’s WebKit. This move allows browser makers such as Google and Mozilla to offer iOS versions running on their respective engines.
Support for Alternative App Marketplaces: In compliance with the DMA, iOS 17.4 introduces support for alternative app marketplaces within the EU. While the practical implications of this change are yet to unfold, it signifies a significant shift in Apple’s app distribution model.
Transcripts in Podcasts
A notable feature introduced in iOS 17.4 is the addition of automatic transcriptions in the Podcasts app. This feature enhances the listening experience by providing real-time transcripts synchronized with the audio, akin to real-time lyrics in Apple Music. Users can now easily follow along with their favourite podcasts and even search through transcripts for specific segments.
New Emoji
What would a new iOS release be without emojis? As customary, iOS and iPadOS 17.4 introduce a plethora of new emoji, including expressive faces, animals, food items, and more. Notably, the update includes monochrome and gender-neutral family emoji variants, reflecting diverse family structures.
Other Enhancements iOS and iPadOS 17.4 encompass a range of additional enhancements and refinements, including multilingual updates to Siri, improvements to stolen device protection, new shortcut actions, and various UI tweaks and optimizations.
The release of iOS and iPadOS 17.4 underscores Apple’s commitment to innovation and regulatory compliance. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, Apple remains at the forefront of delivering user-centric experiences while adapting to regulatory frameworks worldwide.
For users eager to explore the latest features and enhancements, iOS and iPadOS 17.4 are now available for download via Settings > General > Software Update. Stay tuned for further updates and developments as Apple continues to refine its platforms in response to changing market dynamics and user needs.
Paul Balo is the founder of TechBooky and a highly skilled wireless communications professional with a strong background in cloud computing, offering extensive experience in designing, implementing, and managing wireless communication systems.
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Users can now easily follow along with their favourite podcasts and even search through transcripts for specific segments.
