Image credits: Apple
Apple has just released the new version of iOS, the company’s operating system for the iPhone. iOS 17 is free to download and works with iPhone X or later, as well as the second and third generation iPhone SE. Apple is also releasing major updates for watchOS, iPadOS, and tvOS today.
I would say the main change in iOS 17 is the new StandBy mode. When you’re not using your phone and place it on a wireless charger, your iPhone displays full-screen widgets for quick, visible information.
Of course, it works with the MagSafe compatible dock. But even if you have an iPhone SE, you can use this feature with a good old Anker Qi charger, as long as your phone is facing you.
You can choose which widgets to display, such as the weather forecast, a list of reminders, upcoming events on your calendar, the current time and much more. You can also use this mode to view your favorite photos in your photo library.
Many people will also use it for the customizable wake-up screen. It’s a great way to replace an old FM radio alarm clock on your nightstand.
iOS 17 also brings new interactive widgets, a better keyboard, AirPlay improvements, and a ton of built-in app updates, like Messages, Apple Maps, Contacts, built-in password manager, FaceTime, and more .
The update is currently rolling out and is available both over the air in the Settings app and by plugging your device into your computer for a wired update. But first, back up your device. Make sure your iCloud backup is up to date by opening the Settings app on your iPhone and tapping your account information at the top, then your device name. Additionally, you can also connect your iOS device to your computer to make a manual backup in Finder or iTunes for Windows (or do both, really).
Don’t forget to encrypt your backup if you’re backing up to a computer. It is much safer if someone hacks your computer and encrypted backups include saved passwords and health data. This way, you don’t need to log into all your online accounts again.
Once done, you need to go to the Settings app, then “General” then “Software Update”. You should see “Update requested…”. The download will then start automatically once the download is available. While downloading, you can read our iOS 17 review.
