Apple Rolls Out iOS 17.5: Possibly the Final Major Update Before iOS 18

Apple has officially released the iOS 17.5 update to users, marking one of the major updates for iOS 17. As the WWDC 2024 event is around the corner, with the iOS 18 preview expected to debut, iOS 17.5 might well be the last significant update for iOS 17, leaving the possibility of an iOS 17.6 series uncertain.

iOS 17.5 introduces new features, improvements to existing functions, and fixes for security issues. Users can download the latest version by navigating to Settings > General > Software Update on their iOS devices.

Sideloading Apps from the Web in the EU Market:

iOS 17.5 brings the ability for developers to host their app installation packages on their websites, allowing EU users to download and install these packages directly. However, this functionality comes with significant restrictions. Developers must first apply to Apple and get approval before they can offer sideloading. Moreover, the installation packages must be hosted on domains audited by Apple, meaning users cannot use signed installation packages downloaded from other websites.

A critical aspect to consider is the cost. For developers, the first 1 million installations each year are free. Subsequent installations are subject to a core technology fee of 0.5 euros per installation, unless the developer has declared to Apple that their app is non-profit, in which case the fee is waived. However, developers are then prohibited from including any in-app purchase options.

New Game in Apple News+: Quartiles

Following the addition of daily crossword puzzles and mini crossword puzzles last year, Apple News+ now introduces a third game called Quartiles, where players select words from a grid to form new words. This game is available in the Apple News+ service in the United States and Canada, which requires a subscription.

Offline Mode in Apple News+:

With the new offline mode, Apple will automatically download popular news, audio briefings, magazines, and various feature articles in the background. This allows users to access or listen to these items even when offline. Once the device reconnects to the internet, downloaded content will be refreshed, and expired content will be cleared to save space.

Design Changes:

• The Podcasts widget now features dynamic colors, changing according to the artwork of the podcast currently being played.
• The reading goals icon in the top navigation bar of Apple Books has been updated.
• In Settings, under Privacy & Security, the icon for web browser access to Passkeys has been refreshed.
• A new Repair Mode in Find My allows users to enable a function in front of Apple retail store technicians when sending a device for repair. This helps confirm the device belongs to the user while keeping the Find My/Location Services enabled.

This update encapsulates Apple's focus on enhancing user experience, security, and providing unique features to its EU market customers ahead of the anticipated iOS 18 preview.