Apple just released its first public beta versions of the upcoming software update for its wide device lineup, introducing major new features.
According to Apple’s Beta Software Program, the tech giant launched the public testing phase ahead of the next releases of iOS 17, iPadOS 17, tvOS 17, HomePod Software 17, and watchOS 10 this autumn.
Since Wednesday, interested users have been able to enroll their Apple devices to access the beta and try out the latest features, while also becoming eligible to provide feedback directly to the company using the Feedback Assistant app.
iOS 17, iPadOS 17 Bring More New Features
There are multiple new features available for beta testing of iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 software updates for Apple’s smartphones and tablets.
Apple introduced a StandBy feature that transforms it into an information hub when placed horizontally and connected to a charger. StandBy mode displays the time, Live Activities, incoming notifications, and tons of other widgets.
Widgets such as those on the Lock and Home Screen become interactive, so users can do things like control a smart light or check off a Reminder without opening an app. Furthermore, Autocorrect can now correct mistakes with a quick tap.
AirDrop now includes NameDrop, enabling quick sharing of contact details with nearby individuals, while the Phone app offers customizable Contact Posters, allowing you to personalize the caller display.
Meanwhile, Live Voicemail now shows a transcription of the voicemail that someone is leaving right on your Lock Screen so you can pick up if it's important, while the Messages app has a refined look and a Check-In feature that's meant to help you get to your destination safely.
At the same time, FaceTime now supports video messages so you can leave a video voicemail if someone misses a call. Plus, you can use it on Apple TV.
When it comes to browsing the internet, Safari has a locked private browsing window, a password-sharing feature, and better tracking prevention. The Maps app now works offline; the Photos app can recognize your pets; and Visual Look Up works with food, symbols, and videos.
Finally, there's a new mood-tracking feature available in HealthApp, while Apple also plans to add a journaling app later this year. Other features include full-page screenshots, bilingual Siri, and better SMS sorting for dual-SIM users.
tvOS 17 remakes Apple TV Control Center
tvOS 17 brings a redesigned Control Center for Apple TV and a new way to find your Siri Remote with iPhone and FaceTime on Apple TV.
Apple TV users can now easily set up a VPN using third-party apps, and HomePod owners can command Siri to play media through iPhone apps.
There is also the ability to talk to Siri just by saying its name instead of the command “Hey Siri.”
watchOS 10 Focuses on Widgets
Meanwhile, it appears Apple has focused on widgets with the coming watchOS 10.
Today Apple released the watchOS 10 public beta which includes the Snoopy watch face that I've been working on for the last few months!Hope it brings you as much joy as it has me :) #WatchOS10#Snoopy#Applepic.twitter.com/zWEHzc7hIK
— Johnny  (@JohnnySlagle) July 12, 2023
The Smart Stack on the Apple Watch, accessed with a turn of the Digital Crown, displays relevant information based on your needs and usage patterns. What's available changes throughout the day and as the device learns your usage habits.
Apple has updated almost all of the built-in apps, including Weather, Maps, Home, Messages, Activity, Heart Rate, and Stocks, to allow for quicker interactions.
New watch faces, Palette and Snoopy, offer unique visual styles, with Snoopy showcasing changing animations throughout the day. Palette, meanwhile, shows the time in a variety of overlapping colors.
The reworked Maps app introduces a topography view with elevation details, contour lines, and hill shading, ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. Cyclists benefit from enhanced metrics and experiences when paired with Bluetooth-enabled cycling accessories.
Finally, the Mindfulness app introduces a mood and emotion logging feature, Group FaceTime audio calls are supported, and NameDrop enables convenient exchange of contact information between Apple Watches and iPhones.