“Accompanied by watchOS 10 and iPadOS 17, the iPhone upgrade introduces a host of new features to enhance Apple’s mobile devices.”

“On Monday, Apple is set to roll out software updates for its iPhone, iPad, and smartwatch, introducing fresh features and designs for compatible devices.

Unveiled during the company’s developer conference in June, iOS 17, iPadOS 17, and watchOS 10 bring notable enhancements, including an enhanced keyboard with autocorrect that accommodates expressive language, new standby modes, contact posters, extensive customization options, and a significant overhaul of the Apple Watch interface since its inception.

Below, we’ve outlined essential details about these updates.”

When can I get it?

The downloads for iOS, iPadOS, and watchOS updates typically commence around 6 pm UK time (1 pm in New York; 3 am in Sydney). In contrast to some other manufacturers, all compatible Apple devices will have the immediate ability to download and install the update upon its release, rather than in a phased manner.

Which devices can get it?

iOS 17 can be installed on any Apple smartphone released in 2018 or later, starting from the iPhone XS. For iPadOS 17, it is compatible with tablets from the 2017 iPad Pro 10.5in or the 2018 iPad (6th gen) onwards. As for watchOS 10, it is compatible with all Apple Watches from the Series 4 released in 2018 or later.

How do I get it?

Access the Settings application on your iPhone or iPad, then go to General > Software Update. If an installation option is accessible, tap it to initiate the download, perform verification, and subsequently restart for installation. Alternatively, you have the option to install the update using a Mac or via iTunes on a Windows computer.

To install WatchOS 10, ensure your iPhone is running iOS 17 and is an iPhone XS or newer model. Next, open the Watch app on your phone and go to General > Software Update to initiate the installation process. Remember to place the smartwatch on its charger to complete the update.

How much will it cost?

Apple provides these updates free of charge. If you encounter a request for payment in exchange for an update, it is likely a scam.

iPhone – iOS 17

Improved keyboard autocorrect

Apple’s keyboard will now intelligently learn from your manual corrections, allowing you to finally express yourself freely without being hindered by frustrating autocorrect errors. If it does make a mistake, you can easily revert the corrected text by tapping on the underlined words. Additionally, the keyboard is now equipped to predict and complete entire sentences as you type, akin to the functionality found in Google’s Gmail and other platforms.

Contact posters, video messages and live voicemail

“Contact posters encompass your photo, text, and customizable colors that appear on recipients’ phones and in their contacts app when you initiate a call. This allows you to determine how you’re represented when reaching out to people.

With NameDrop, you can effortlessly share your contact details with another iPhone or Apple Watch by simply bringing them close and selecting what to send. This same proximity-based process also applies to other AirDrop file-sharing interactions.

Initially available for users in the US and Canada, the phone app can now instantly transcribe voicemail messages in real time, providing you with caller information and the message content before answering, which is useful for avoiding spam calls.

In FaceTime, callers now have the option to leave video voicemails if the recipient is unavailable. Additionally, you can conduct video calls on a TV using an Apple TV box along with an iPhone or iPad’s camera. Animated reactions, like rising balloons and other elements, can be triggered with hand gestures such as a thumbs-up.”

StandBy mode, just ‘Siri’ and offline Apple Maps

The fresh Standby mode transforms the iPhone into a compact smart display when placed in landscape orientation while charging. It displays essential information like the time, widgets, photos, and even permits Siri interactions at a glance. Additionally, a new option eliminates the need for saying “hey” before invoking Siri, and now Siri can seamlessly handle consecutive requests without requiring the “Siri” command each time.

In the Apple Maps app, you now have the ability to save specific areas of a map for offline access. This includes directions, opening hours, and other pertinent details, aligning with the long-standing popular feature in Google Maps. Moreover, Apple’s Safari browser has introduced profiles, bringing it in line with competitors like Chrome and Firefox. These profiles enable you to maintain distinct sets of bookmarks, settings, sites, and cookies, allowing for separate configurations, such as one for work and another for personal use.