Apple is currently seeding iOS 17.4 Beta 2 to developers, aiming for a March release of this next operating system update. iOS 17.4 brings several changes, including exclusive features for European customers, by opening up iOS to third-party payments, app stores, and more. Here's everything you need to know about iOS 17.4 Beta 2.
First and foremost, all iPhone users will have access to five key iOS 17.4 features:
- Game app changes: Streaming gaming apps are now available on App Stores around the world, including Xbox Cloud Gaming and GeForce NOW, which offer games within their own apps.
- Send a message with Siri: Siri can read incoming messages in multiple languages, including Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, and more.
- Podcast transcript: The podcast app now provides transcripts for all podcast episodes.
- New emoji: Over 100 new emoji are available in iOS 17.4. You can find them here.
- Changes to stolen device protection: Apple has added an option to require double authentication at all times, not just in unfamiliar locations.
In addition to these new features, Apple has also updated the Apple Music and Apple Podcasts apps by renaming the “Listen Now” tab to “Home.”
Currently, iOS 17.4 Beta 2 includes the following important changes for users in Europe:
Marketplace – or alternative app store: App developers in the EU can choose to offer their apps in alternative app stores, as long as they meet Apple's standards such as customer experience, support, and fraud prevention.
Notarization of iOS apps: A baseline review applied to all apps, regardless of distribution channel, focused on platform integrity and user protection. Notarization involves a combination of automated checks and human reviews.
Default browser options: EU users can select a new default browser from the list of most downloaded browsers on iOS devices immediately after updating to iOS 17.4.
NFC third party access: Banks and third-party payment services can be provided for iPhone in Europe.
Further access: Developers can request additional hardware and software features from Apple.
BGR We'll let you know if we find anything different in this beta version.
