Apple has shared the full release notes for iOS 17.4, which is expected to be released next week. Key new features include major App Store changes in the EU, Apple Podcasts transcripts, an iMessage security upgrade, and new emoji. The update also prepares for the launch of next-generation CarPlay vehicles later this year.
The changes in the EU are in response to the Digital Markets Act. Apple has until Wednesday, March 6 to comply with the new regulations, in order to avoid fines, so iOS 17.4 will likely be released on or before that date.
iOS 17.4 will be available in the Settings app under General → Software Update, and it is compatible with the iPhone XS and newer.
The full U.S. release notes for iOS 17.4:
Emoji
- New mushroom, phoenix, lime, broken chain, and shaking heads emoji are now available in the emoji keyboard
- 18 people and body emoji add the option to face them in either directionApple Podcasts
- Transcripts let you follow an episode with text that highlights in sync with the audio in English, Spanish, French and German
- Episode text can be read in full, searched for a word or phrase, tapped to play from a specific point and used with accessibility features such as Text Size, Increase Contrast, and VoiceOverThis update includes the following enhancements and bug fixes:
- Music recognition lets you add songs you have identified to your Apple Music Playlists and Library, as well as Apple Music Classical
- Siri has a new option to announce messages you receive in any supported language
- Stolen Device Protection supports the option for increased security in all locations
- Battery Health in Settings shows battery cycle count, manufacture date, and first use on iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models
- Call Identification displays Apple-verified business name, logo, and department name when available
- Business updates in Messages for Business provide trusted information for order status, flight notifications, fraud alerts or other transactions you opt into
- Apple Cash virtual card numbers enable you to pay with Apple Cash at merchants that don't yet accept Apple Pay by typing in your number from Wallet or using Safari AutoFill
- Fixes an issue where contact pictures are blank in Find My
- Fixes an issue for Dual SIM users where the phone number changes from primary to secondary and is visible to a group they have messaged
Some features may not be available for all regions or on all Apple devices. For information on the security content of Apple software updates, please visit this website: https://support.apple.com/kb/HT201222
For more details, read our iOS 17.4 features guide.
