Apple's iOS 17.4 brings important changes to the App Store, new emojis and much more.

Apple has released the long-awaited iOS 17.4 update, which brings a few exciting changes for iPhone users, especially in Europe. While some of the biggest innovations are reserved for EU citizens, the update also offers remarkable additions for the rest of the world. Apple opens the App Store, adds new emojis and improves the Podcasts app

The most important innovation in iOS 17.4 is undoubtedly the support for third-party app stores. This allows iPhone users in the European Union to download applications from sources outside the official app store for the first time.

This change is a consequence of the legislation of the EU Digital Markets Act and represents one of the most significant adjustments for the iPhone in years. However, it is important to mention that this only applies to users in the EU.

Apple must now also give users the opportunity to set the default browser themselves. Therefore, on iOS 17.4, a selection dialog is displayed when Safari is opened for the first time, which can be used to set another browser. In addition, Apple must open its system to other browser engines. So far, all browsers installed on the iPhone must use Apple's Webkit engine - including Chrome and Firefox.

18 new emojis: mushroom, lime and a burning Phoenix

For users worldwide, iOS 17.4 also offers some novelties, including 18 new emojis, including mushroom, lime and a burning Phoenix. In addition, Apple's Podcasts app now offers written transcripts for episodes that allow users to read the podcast and listen to the audio content at the same time.

With iOS 17.4, Apple is also introducing a new encryption protocol called PQ3 for iMessage, which aims to make the messenger future-proof. It relies on post-quantum cryptography. This is intended to arm iMessage against the threat scenario of the "harvest now, decrypt later" (collect now, decrypt later).

Customized display on CarPlay and improved music recognition

With iOS 17.4, CarPlay offers drivers of certain car models an improved display of upcoming maneuvers via the instrument cluster experience. Users can easily switch between the main view and the instrument cluster screen by tapping the map configuration button.

Other features in iOS 17.4 include improvements in music recognition, a new option for Siri to announce messages in any supported language, as well as updates for Stolen Device Protection, battery health and call identification.

Particularly exciting is the mentioned function of Stolen Device Protection, which has already been introduced in iOS 17.3 and is now further improved. The service ensures that stolen devices remain protected and unauthorized persons cannot access personal information, as authentication via Face ID or Touch ID is required to perform certain action.

Install Apple's iOS 17.4 - this is how it works

To install iOS 17.4 on the iPhone, you have to go to the "Settings", then select the "General" and "Software Update" section. So you can perform the update within minutes and enjoy the new functions on the iPhone.

[Via GQ Germany]