Apple iOS 17.5: New Features, Release Date, and More

Apple has been hard at work on the next iteration of its mobile operating system, and iOS 17.5 is just around the corner. While it may not be a major update, it does bring some interesting features and improvements.

Let’s dive into what you can expect from iOS 17.5:

1. Web Distribution for EU Developers

Starting with the second beta of iOS 17.5, eligible developers in the European Union (EU) can now distribute their iOS apps directly on the web. This means that users in the EU will be able to download apps without going through the App Store or other app marketplaces. To qualify for this distribution method, developers must have been part of the Apple Developer Program for at least two continuous years and have an app with over one million annual installs in the EU. This move comes as Apple aims to comply with the EU’s Digital Markets Act.

2. Quartiles Word Game for Apple News+ Subscribers

Apple News+ subscribers will get a new daily word game called “Quartiles.” In this game, players combine tiles to form words and earn points. Each puzzle starts with a grid of 20 tiles, and quartiles (four-tile words) are the key to scoring big. If you find all five quartiles in each puzzle, you’ll earn a 40-point bonus. Quartiles integrates with Game Center, allowing you to compete with others on leaderboards. You can find Quartiles in the Apple News app under the Following tab → Puzzles.

3. Repair Mode Without Deactivating Find My and Activation Lock

iOS 17.5 introduces a “Repair State” option that lets you send your iPhone in for service without deactivating Find My and Activation Lock. This is a convenient feature for users who need repairs but want to maintain security.

4. Color-Changing Apple Podcasts Widget

While listening to a podcast on iOS 17.5, the background color of the Apple Podcasts widget changes to match the podcast’s cover art. This feature was initially added in the iOS 17.4 beta but was temporarily removed before the final release. Now it’s back and better than ever!

Release Date: iOS 17.5 is expected to be released to the public before the end of May. Keep an eye out for the official announcement!

Remember to back up your data before updating to any new iOS version. Stay tuned for more news and updates as we approach the release date.

Happy iOS-ing! 📱✨