Apple released the fourth beta of its forthcoming iOS 17.4 update for the iPhone last week. While the company is expected to release the fifth developed beta on Tuesday, the final release is fast approaching. iOS 17.4 update holds immense importance for Apple as well as developers, bringing a permanent impact on how users install apps on the iPhone. The platform will host a plethora of changes for the App Store, so check out when iOS 17.4 will be released to the general public for all compatible iPhone models.
Apple will release iOS 17.4 update for iPhone ahead of EU's March 6 deadline
It was previously covered that Apple has until March 6 to bring new features and changes imposed by the EU under the Digital Markets Act. This means that the update will be released sometime before the deadline. Apple confirmed in its press release that the iOS 17.4 update will be released for the iPhone in March. While the company did not mention the exact date, we can estimate that the update will arrive before March 6.
Developers can learn about these changes on the Apple Developer Support page and can begin testing new capabilities today in the iOS 17.4 beta. The new capabilities will become available to users in the 27 EU countries beginning in March 2024.
If Apple does not comply with the EU's regulations under the Digital Markets Act, it will have to pay hefty fines. Henceforth, we have a rough idea of when the company could see fit to release the iOS 17.4 update for the iPhone. As mentioned, iOS 17.4 will be a major update for the iPhone as it will bring a plethora of changes to the App Store. Users will be able to sideload apps from outside the App Store for the first time.
Besides this, iOS 17.4 will also house additional guidelines for developers to offer their own or alternate app stores for the general public. Additionally, developers can also opt to include their payment methods. However, Apple's fee structure has left third-party developers baffled at this stage. While final details are scarce at this point in time, we will share more information on the execution of the system as soon as further details are available.
Note that the App Store and developer changes are only applicable in countries that fall under the EU. Apart from this, iOS 17.4 will also house notable upgrades for the rest of the world. The update will include new Podcast transcripts, new security protocols for iMessage, new emojis, and much more. Let us know in the comments what features you look forward to the most with the iOS 17.4 update.
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