The next iPhone software release will include a new feature that all owners will welcome- an extra layer of security to protect against stolen devices. The release, dubbed iOS 17.3, is expected to land after the holidays, likely in the middle of January, around Tuesday, January 16 or Tuesday, January 23. Among the new features is something called Stolen Device Protection, which requires Face ID or Touch ID authentication for actions like viewing passkeys, erasing content, and more. There will also be a security delay for actions like changing the password of the Apple ID account when the phone is in an unfamiliar location.
The highly anticipated Stolen Device Protection is opt-in, meaning users must choose to activate it to benefit from the added security. This new feature will be available to all iPhones from the iPhone XS onwards, provided they have been updated to iOS 17 and the user activates it.
In addition to the Stolen Device Protection, the new software update will also include other features such as collaborative Apple Music playlists. This feature was initially expected to appear on iOS 17.2 but was removed before the betas became general release software.
The iOS 17.3 update is expected to bring more than just enhanced security. According to YouTuber Brandon Butch, the update also promises better battery life, a welcome addition for iPhone users. The initial review of the update is positive, with claims of improved performance and battery life.
The release date of iOS 17.3 has been a topic of discussion among tech enthusiasts, with various predictions pointing to the week commencing January 23 or even the week before as the potential release date.
Overall, the next iOS update promises to provide iPhone users with a significant boost in security and additional features to enhance their digital experience.