Presented last June during Apple’s traditional high mass, iOS 17 has since been in the hands of application developers and the most curious who do not hesitate to install beta versions of the operating system on their iPhone. As always, this new version of the OS gives pride of place to features to which we are returning today.
A new interface for the Phone app
The Phone application has been redesigned, notably with a new button layout. This mainly concerns the Pick up / Hang up button which is no longer separated from the others. It is now aligned with five other buttons, the classic audio settings, mute of the microphone or even FaceTime… It will therefore be necessary to take new habits, but it is undoubtedly the price to pay to leave more room for personalized Contact Posters.
In addition, Apple gives the possibility of personalizing contact cards by allowing users to choose a photo, then adjust the background color, and enter the name of the person with a personalized typography.
Live Voicemail, so you don’t miss a thing
Very practical to use, the Live Voicemail function allows you to transcribe in writing the content of a voice message left on your phone.
Safer browsing
Safari sees its private browsing function become easier to access. This can be locked with FaceID or via a code so that a third party cannot access the tabs opened under the private browsing regime.
Simpler shortcuts
The very powerful Shortcuts application is not fully exploited on the iPhone. It must be said that it is not always easy to understand. To facilitate its implementation, iOS 17 brings a new series of more explicit icons.
Offline maps for Plan
Function present for years in Google Maps, offline maps are finally appearing in Plan. As a reminder, these are maps previously downloaded and stored in the memory of the smartphone. In the absence of a mobile network or to save your plan if you are abroad, this possibility is really very practical.
Locate your Apple TV remote
iOS 17 offers the possibility of locating the remote control of its Apple TV from the Siri Remote shortcut in the Control Center.
Apple takes care of your mental well-being
The Mental Well-Being section of the Health app is getting a makeover, especially the interface, where you can select the state of mind of the moment. Positive feelings appear on the right and negative ones on the left.
Voice messages on FaceTime
The FaceTime update should make it possible to leave a video message if the interlocutor does not answer. Which ultimately comes down to… sending a video.
“Hey Siri” becomes “Siri”
The famous “Say Siri“disappears and you just have to pronounce”Siri” to launch Apple’s voice assistant.
Faster typing
A new keyboard arrives to allow ever faster typing. Predictive input is therefore in the spotlight to display suggestions directly in the body of the text and no longer in the bar located above the keyboard.
In addition, Apple promises more precise voice dictation, and finer automatic correction, detecting more grammar mistakes. It is therefore a question of adapting more and more to the habits of the user.
NameDrop
Sharing functions are evolving, in particular with the arrival of the NameDrop function. Based on NFC, it allows very fast transmission of contact information between terminals branded with an apple (or an Apple Watch). This will remind the oldest of the famous Palm Beam from the early 2000s. Users must choose the item they wish to share (email address, telephone number) to simplify the procedure in the event of a new meeting.
The Diary app
The new Journal app should make it easier to keep a diary or travel diary. This app will suggest content (photos, videos, locations, sports training, music listened to, etc.) to inspire writing; developers will be able to obtain the necessary APIs to allow the iPhone to suggest content from their applications to journaling enthusiasts.
There are only a few weeks left before discovering the full features of iOS 17.