The New iOS Has Arrived – Exploring the Key Features of Version 17.2

After months of testing, iOS 17.2 is now available to users, marking the second major release of the 17th main version introduced in September this year. In addition to numerous new features, this update addresses important security vulnerabilities. Let’s delve into everything that comes with the new version for iPhones.

One of the standout features of the new version is the Journal app, introduced by Apple at the June 2023 WWDC but only now making its way to users. The app installs automatically with the update, eliminating the need for a separate download. However, if you feel it’s unnecessary, you can delete it without any consequences. The Journal app, as its name suggests, is an intuitive diary application that analyzes daily activities using on-device artificial intelligence.

At the end of the day, the Journal sends a notification summarizing the day’s events, providing insights into activities such as photos taken, locations visited, music listened to, and even with whom conversations were held. Apple initiated the development of the app after evidence showed that journaling significantly contributes to balanced mental health.

The Music app also receives an update, introducing collaborative playlists, a feature announced months ago during the testing phase but postponed to 2024 by Apple. Additionally, a new Favorites playlist is introduced, automatically appearing in the library after the update. This playlist compiles songs that were previously liked or starred.

Other Apps Also Get Upgrades If you thought the innovations ended there, you couldn’t be more mistaken. With the new iOS, iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max owners can now record Spatial videos, which can be viewed in the upcoming Apple Vision Pro debuting next year. Furthermore, the Operation button on the phones is updated – pressing it will now bring up the built-in Translator app.

The following features are applicable to all eligible iPhone models with the latest update:

• Users can now change the default notification sound in settings.
• In the Messages app, reactions to messages can now include emojis and stickers, in addition to the previously specified six reactions.
• Contact Key Verification is introduced within the Messages app.
• The Sensitive Content filter, initially safeguarding photos of young users, now extends to stickers and Contact posters.
• The Weather app receives three new widgets, while the Clock app gets a new widget.

How to Update to iOS 17.2 Since the update is now available, installing it is a straightforward process. Open Settings, navigate to General, then tap on Software Update. After a short wait, iOS 17.2 should appear. Depending on the device, the update size can be up to six gigabytes, so if storage is limited, consider deleting some photos, videos, or apps before installation.

It’s also advisable to create a backup before updating to avoid potential data loss, although the risk is minimal. After downloading, the installation takes approximately 10-15 minutes, during which the device cannot be used. Choosing the option to update overnight while sleeping might be more convenient.

Supported Devices: iOS 17.2 is compatible with the following iPhones: iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone XR, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone SE (3rd generation), iPhone SE (2nd generation).

In addition to iOS 17.2, Apple has also released iPadOS 17.2, macOS Sonoma 14.2, watchOS 10.2, and tvOS 17.2. For more detailed information on these updates, click here.