One of the most expected updates on Apple's iPhone operating system is coming with iOS 17.4 which will be released this March, an update that Apple already confirmed last late January. First off, this will bring a massive revamp to the iOS in the European region and its constituents as the Digital Markets Act compliance may be found in this version, but other new features for those outside the EU region are also coming.
iOS 17.4 is Coming this March: What to Expect
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The iOS 17.4 update is right around the corner, as it was revealed by Apple in its press release that updates are coming this March, one that would benefit EU users mostly. But there is still a lot to look forward to from the new version of the iPhone's operating system for the rest of the world.
According to MacRumors, there are many updates to be part of IOS 17.4 that go beyond sideloading, and those are meant for all users, EU included.
This includes the likes of Apple Podcasts which will bring in transcripts for users to read on or catch up on when playing an episode. Additionally, the HomePod is also getting the SharePlay compatibility with the iPhones for better control.
New emojis are also part of the update for iOS 17.4, including heads that are shaking horizontally and vertically, a phoenix, a mushroom, a lime, and a broken chain. Next-gen CarPlay will also bring new apps and experiences soon.
Despite the many new features, iOS 17.4 is monumental because of the famed adherence of Apple to the EU law, especially as it opens up the iPhone, App Store, and more to third-party experiences. As many as 27 member states of the EU will get these new features like sideloading, third-party payment options, default web browser, iPhone's NFC chip, and more.
Apple's iOS and the EU DMA
The start of the year also marks the time for Apple to change its policies on iOS to adhere to the European Commission's new law known as the DMA, looking to stifle competition and promote more options for users apart from what the Big Tech offers. One of the features here is sideloading, but some reports claim Apple will charge developers who bring their apps to third-party platforms.
Amidst this, Apple is also changing massive things for the iPhone's hold over exclusive features that are only accessible for Cupertino's apps, and that includes the NFC feature to be available to other companies under the EU region. Through this, tap-to-pay and contactless payments may now use the NFC feature natively, and no longer need to be under Apple Pay.
However, there are massive restrictions that Apple reportedly added, and this includes the iPad still featuring the previous policies that would not allow sideloading for the platform. Coming this iOS 17.4 is Apple's massive changes for the European region, but that does not mean this version will only focus on the EU, as users from all over the world also get to see new features available this March.
