Apple Unveils iOS 17.4 Beta 2 with Game-Changing Updates: Details

Apple has officially launched the beta testing phase for its highly anticipated iOS 17.4 update, alongside complementary updates for macOS 14.4 beta 2, watchOS 10.4 beta 2, and tvOS 17.4 beta 2. This release, available to public beta testers and developers, introduces significant revisions to the App Store and iPhone functionality, aligning with the Digital Markets Act mandates across 27 European Union nations.

Scheduled for a final release in early March 2024, iOS 17.4 marks a pivotal moment for Apple as it navigates legal obligations in the EU while ushering in transformative updates for its mobile operating system.

Noteworthy Features in iOS 17.4 Beta 2

1. Support for Alternative App Marketplaces:In adherence to the EU antitrust ruling, iOS 17.4 grants users the unprecedented ability to download apps from alternative sources, such as the Epic Games Store, diverging from the traditional exclusivity of the App Store.

2. Browser Choice:Users now possess the freedom to select their default browser directly from a Safari pop-up message. Furthermore, iOS 17.4 expands compatibility to browsers utilizing engines distinct from WebKit, offering options like Firefox or Chrome.

3. Diverse Payment Options:Apple introduces flexibility in payment methods for in-app purchases, enabling users to utilize alternatives to Apple Pay, such as PayPal or Venmo. Moreover, customization options extend to setting default NFC and wallet apps for Apple Pay transactions.

4. Enhanced Stolen Device Protection: Security measures are fortified with the option to enforce a security delay for altering device settings, even within familiar locations. This impedes unauthorized access and device tampering, bolstering Find My iPhone functionality.

5. Podcasts Transcripts:The iOS 17.4 update introduces podcast episode transcript searchability within the Apple Podcasts app, akin to real-time lyrics in Apple Music. Additionally, the Now Playing bar receives a visual overhaul for enhanced user experience.

6. Siri Multilingual Messaging:Users can now instruct Siri to read messages in languages distinct from their default language settings, facilitating seamless communication across linguistic boundaries.

7. New Emoji Additions: Seven new emoji variants, including a heart with a bandage and a face exhaling, enrich the expressive capabilities of iOS devices. Moreover, expanded family emoji combinations offer more excellent representation and inclusivity.

8. Vision Pro Compatibility: Enhanced compatibility for Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 users enables the disabling of Double Tap functionality when utilizing Vision Pro, ensuring optimal user experience and gesture integration.

Beyond these prominent updates, iOS 17.4 introduces minor refinements, such as renaming Listen Now tabs to Home tabs, Safari address bar expansion, Identifiable Region label inclusion in the Settings app, and Siri shortcut expansion to Germany. As Apple advances towards the official release of iOS 17.4, users can anticipate a redefined mobile experience characterized by enhanced privacy, accessibility, and functionality.