Apple has released iOS 17.4 and iPadOS 17.4, the fourth major updates to the iOS 17 operating system released in September 2023. These updates, arriving more than a month after iOS 17.3 and iPadOS 17.3, can be downloaded on eligible iPhones and iPads through a over-the-air update.
Significant changes to the App Store for the European Union
With iOS 17.4, Apple introduces sweeping changes to the way the App Store and apps work in the European Union, paving the way for alternative app marketplaces on iPhone, alternative payment systems on iOS and iPadOS, support for mobile navigation engines, third parties, and NFC access for banks and third-party payment providers. These changes are limited to the EU and are not applicable in other countries.
Global news in gaming applications
Globally, Apple now allows cloud gaming apps like Xbox Cloud Gaming and Nvidia GeForce NOW. Mini games, chatbots and add-ons can also now use the in-app purchase system.
Improvements and additions in iOS 17.4
In addition to App Store-related updates, iOS 17.4 adds new emoji characters, transcripts for podcasts in the Podcasts app, Live Activities for the stopwatch, improvements to the battery health report on iPhone 15 models, and more.
Security Protections and Enhancements
This update includes improvements like adding identified songs to Apple Music playlists and libraries, a new Siri option to announce messages in any supported language, and protection for stolen devices with the enhanced security option in all locations.
EU Specific Release Notes
Although Apple’s US release notes do not highlight the changes in the European Union, the update allows the installation of alternative app markets on iPhones in Europe. EU residents will have new options to install apps from alternative marketplaces, manage their default web browser, and use alternative payment options for apps on the App Store.
Take a look at the video that Manu just uploaded where he shows you all the new features of iOS 17.4 in depth!
Exploring what’s new in iOS 17.4
For more information about what’s new in iOS 17.4, you can consult the iOS 17.4 features guide. These developments underscore Apple’s commitment to innovation and adaptability, paving the way for future evolutions in its ecosystem of apps and services.