As the release date of iOS 17 developer beta 1 approaches, numerous leaks and rumors have surfaced, offering a glimpse into the potential features and updates that might be included in the upcoming software.
Just like every year, the leaks and rumors about the upcoming iOS software update hype up the excitement. And some of these leaks prove to be true. For instance, several analysts and reports suggested Dynamic Island in iPhone 14, and we know what Apple did.
I have made a roaster of some of the most exciting leaks and discussed their possible implications for iOS 17.
Device Compatibility
According to the leaks, every iPhone that supports iOS 16 will also support iOS 17, including the iPhone 10, iPhone 8, and iPhone 8 Plus. This is great news for users with these devices, as they are still capable. It contradicts many other leaks claiming iOS 17 will not support iPhone.
However, whether iPads with Apple A9 and A10 Fusion chips will receive the update is still being determined.
Performance and Stability
The primary focus of iOS 17 is efficiency, stability, and long-term support for older devices. This aligns with previous reports that Apple may be prioritizing bug fixes and performance improvements for this software update.
The first few beta cycles may be rough for devices with 3GB of RAM, like the iPhone 10 and 8. The software is expected to become more stable and efficient over time.
Control Center Overhaul
One of the most significant changes coming to iOS 17 could be a major revamp of the Control Center, including updates to the user interface and increased customization options.
There have been rumors that Apple is working on a new Control Center design, possibly inspired by macOS, as well as the ability to add more toggles and rearrange them according to user preferences.
Dynamic Island and Always-On Display Improvements
Dynamic Island, introduced in iPhone 14, could receive additional features and functionality, such as notifications and efficiency improvements.
The Always-On Display for iPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max may also see updates, offering users more customization options, like clock positioning and other display features.
Focus Mode and Notifications
The leaks suggest that iOS 17 will bring additional options and filters to Focus mode, which Apple typically updates regularly.
Notifications are also expected to receive more options in the settings, possibly integrating with Dynamic Island for improved functionality.
Custom Accessibility Mode
Custom Accessibility Mode, first discovered in iOS 16.2 but has not yet been implemented, appears to be coming to iOS 17 instead.
Active Widgets and Interactive Features
One long-requested feature among iPhone users is active widgets, which could be introduced in iOS 17 with one-tap buttons and sliders for increased functionality.
These “Dynamic Widgets” could allow users to interact with their devices more efficiently, offering controls on the home screen for functions like playing music or managing smart home devices.
Health, Camera, Search, and Spotlight Updates
The leaks suggest that the Health app and Camera app will receive user interface updates while improvements will be made to Search and Spotlight functionalities.
These updates could potentially make Siri smarter and more efficient, benefiting users in everyday interactions with their devices.
Massive ARKit Update
Lastly, the leaks indicate a massive update to ARKit and APIs frameworks. This could be a sign that Apple’s mixed-reality headset is coming sooner rather than later.
While these leaks should be taken with a grain of salt, they offer an exciting look at the possible features and improvements coming to iOS 17. With WWDC just around the corner, we won’t have to wait long to see which leaks materialize in the final software update.