iOS 17.5 has been released, this is a new feature on the iPhone
We’re less than a month away from the iOS 18 preview at WWDC 2024, but that doesn’t stop Apple from continuing to improve iOS at the moment. After the beta period that started in early April, iOS 17.5 has been released and is ready to be installed on any iPhone capable of running iOS 17.
Since we’ve been far enough in the iOS 17 life cycle, you won’t find many great new features in the iOS 17.5 update, although there are some extras worth paying attention to in the News app and overall security. iPhone owners in the EU also have a new way of getting third-party apps from outside Apple’s official App Store, as Apple is trying to comply with EU guidelines.
Here are new features in iOS 17.5 beyond the usual bug fix set.
Cross-platform tracking detection
Since iOS 14.5, your iPhone will notify you when it detects an unknown AirTag or Find My network accessory moving with you, as a way to prevent people from quietly tracking your location. iOS 17.5 extends that feature to other Bluetooth-based tracking devices, after Apple and Google have worked together to develop this cross-platform feature.
If the Bluetooth tracker is detected moving with you, you will get a notification on your iPhone, regardless of the platform that is paired with the device. This feature is also available for Android users who are running Android 6 or later on their devices.
Addition of Apple News Plus
Apple News Plus service subscribers for $12.99/month get a new pair of features with the release of iOS 17.5. A new game called Quartiles has been added along with a crossword that Apple has brought to its news app on iOS 17.5. This tile-based game is only available in the US and Canada.
In addition, Apple News Plus adds offline mode, where articles, audio reports, and games are stored in free space on your iPhone so you can access them when you don’t have a Wi-Fi or cellular connection. Offline downloads happen automatically, although you can go to settings on your iPhone and adjust the type of content downloaded. (You can also turn this feature off completely.)
Availability of third-party applications in EU countries
iOS 17.4 released in March gives EU residents the ability to download apps from third-party stores. iOS 17.5 further refines it by allowing app creators to offer apps to download directly from their website.
There are several obstacles that must be overcome. The developer must fill out the form with Apple and agree to the company’s terms. But if they successfully complete the process, they can offer the application directly to consumers.
How to Upgrade to iOS 17.5
To upgrade to iOS 17.5, go to Settings and select General. On the next screen, tap Software Update where iOS 17.5 will be waiting for you. Follow the on-screen instructions to download and install new software.
iOS 17.5 is compatible with iPhone XS, iPhone XR, and iPhone XS Max, as well as any iPhone released since 2019.
FAQ about iOS 17.5
What is iOS 17.5? iOS 17.5 is the latest software update from Apple for iPhone that supports iOS 17. This update includes several new features, bug fixes, and security improvements.
How to download and install iOS 17.5? To download and install iOS 17.5, go to Settings on your iPhone, select General, then tap Software Update. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
What are the new features in iOS 17.5? New features in iOS 17.5 include cross-platform tracking detection for Bluetooth devices, the addition of quartiles games and offline mode in Apple News Plus, as well as increased availability of third-party applications in EU countries.
Is iOS 17.5 compatible with all iPhones? iOS 17.5 is compatible with iPhone XS, iPhone XR, and iPhone XS Max, as well as all iPhones released after 2019.
Why do I need to upgrade to iOS 17.5? Upgrading to iOS 17.5 will ensure that your iPhone has the latest features, bug fixes, and security improvements. This update also introduces several new features that can enhance your user experience.
