This week, Apple announced iOS 17, the next major update to the iPhone operating system, bringing with it several new features including NameDrop, Standby mode, more lock screen customization options, and a smarter keyboard. However, not all of these features work with all iPhone models supported by iOS 17.
First, Apple will no longer offer support with iOS 17 iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone XTherefore, the minimum requirement for installing the update is an iPhone XR or later. Even if you have a qualifying iPhone, some new features may require a newer device. Below you will therefore find all the features of iOS 17 and on which models they are available.
Live Voicemail
Live Voicemail allows the user to view a real-time transcript of voice messages as they are left on voicemail and provides the ability to reply while the message is being recorded. With iOS 17, voice messages are transcribed in real time on the lock screen. However, even if this function works with any iPhone With iOS 17, it’s only available in the US and Canada.
Reactions to FaceTime
With iOS 17 and tvOS 17, users can wirelessly connect their iPhone to Apple TV to start a FaceTime call on the big screen. This feature is available with any iPhone model with iOS 17, but requires a second generation Apple TV 4K (2021) or later.
NameDrop
With NameDrop In iOS 17, users can share their contacts with other iPhone users simply by holding their iPhone close to the other person’s iPhone. This feature is available for all iPhone models with iOS 17. It also works with the Apple Watch, but only for Series 6 and later models.
Improved autocorrect
iOS 17 uses machine learning to better understand how you type on your phonemore accurate and personalized autocorrect. Words are temporarily underlined to show changes you’ve made, and you can go back to the original word with just a tap.
This system is only available for iPhone 12 and newer models in the following languages: Arabic, Dutch, English, French, German, Hebrew, Korean, ItalianPolish, Portuguese, Romanian, Spanish and Thai.
keyboard hints
Another new keyboard-related feature is suggestions as you type. The system recognizes the words or phrases you type and auto-completes them by tapping the spacebar. Keyboard predictions require a iPhone 12 or newer and currently only work in English.
Adaptive audio and faster automatic switching for AirPods
Apple has revealed some outstanding improvements being made to the AirPods. These include Adaptive Audio, which dynamically mixes the transparency and active noise canceling function according to the external environment. While there are no restrictions on compatible iPhone models, this feature is only available with Second generation AirPods Pro. The same requirements also apply to Faster automatic switching.
Press to mute or unmute your AirPods
During a call, you can press the stick of your AirPods to toggle mute on or off. This function works with Third generation AirPods and with both generations of AirPods Pro. It also works with AirPods Max via the digital crown.
New “Siri” command
Starting with the iPhone 6s, users can talk hands-free to Siri simply by saying the command “Hey Siri.” This command was later added to virtually all Apple devices and became a central part of the HomePod, Apple’s smart speaker. However, with iOS 17, macOS 14, and other updates, users no longer need to say “Hey Siri” to talk to the virtual assistant.
The new command continues to work any iPhone with iOS 17, however English only for the moment. As for AirPods, just those Second generation AirPods Pro are compatible.
Consecutive requests to Siri
Finally, Siri supports consecutive requests. That means you can make multiple requests after activating Siri without having to reactivate it each time. For example, you can say “Siri, text Emma I’m on my way” and then “Remind me to water the plants when I get home” without having to repeat “Siri” between requests. This feature works English only.
Point and speak
One of the new accessibility features in iOS 17 is Point and Talk, which makes it easier for people with visual impairments to interact with physical objects that have text labels on them. You can point your iPhone’s camera at something and the system will read out the recognized texts for you. However, this feature is only available for iPhones equipped with LiDAR scanners (iPhone 12 Pro and newer Pro models).
History of Home Business
The new “Activity History” in the app Home This allows you to see who locked or unlocked the door and when. It also shows recent activity for your garage doors, contact sensors, and security system. Although this function works with any iPhone For iOS 17, you need to update the Home app architecture before you can enable this feature.
Stand by
With iOS 17, iPhone has a new Standby mode that displays an alternative user interface with full-screen widgets when iPhone is positioned horizontally and connected to the charger. Standby mode is available for any iPhone with iOS 17, but only iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max Keep the information continuously on the screen thanks to the function Always to see.
To find out all the new features introduced with iOS 17, take a look at our dedicated article.
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