Apple Seeds Second iOS 17.4 Public Beta With EU App Ecosystem Changes

Apple today seeded the second betas of upcoming iOS 17.4 and iPadOS 17.4 updates to public beta testers, allowing non-developers to test the software ahead of its release. The second public iOS 17.4 and iPadOS 17.4 betas come a week after Apple released the first betas.

iOS 17
Public beta testers can get the beta by opening up the Settings app, going to the Software Update section, tapping on the "Beta Updates" option, and toggling on the iOS 17 or iPadOS 17 Public Beta. Signing up on Apple's beta testing website is required.

The iOS 17.4 and iPadOS 17.4 betas introduce a whole slew of changes for users in the European Union, allowing for alternative app stores and alternative payment methods.

There are new options for choosing a default browser, NFC has been opened up to banks and other financial institutions, and browsers aren't mandated to use WebKit.

Along with these changes, the update also brings new emoji characters, Podcast transcripts, tweaks to Safari, hints of what we can expect from the next-generation CarPlay, and more.

Full details on what's included in iOS 17.4 can be found in our features guide. Apple has also released new public betas of tvOS 17.4, watchOS 10.4, and the HomePod 17.4 Software.

Related Forums: iOS 17, iPadOS 17

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Top Rated Comments

AppleMango Avatar
13 months ago
If I’m affected by those changes, can I make sure that everything remains the same and I have the same safety as before?
Score: 4 Votes (Like | Disagree)
one more Avatar
13 months ago

If I’m affected by those changes, can I make sure that everything remains the same and I have the same safety as before?
All of this is totally optional and nothing is forced on you, it is a choice. In order to install an app from outside of Apple’s own AppStore, you will have to go to a specific third party app store and install an app from there. So nothing will self install for you, if you are worried about that.
Score: 4 Votes (Like | Disagree)
elementalwingma Avatar
13 months ago
I know it might seem trivial but I for one am ecstatic that the Notification Center bug is fixed.
Score: 2 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Angerhome Avatar
13 months ago

If I’m affected by those changes, can I make sure that everything remains the same and I have the same safety as before?
Didn't you just order a MacBook?

You must never connect the iPhone to the MacBook. You fear something with the iPhone that has been common practice with the MacBook for years.??‍♂️
Score: 2 Votes (Like | Disagree)
traveler01 Avatar
12 months ago

All of this is totally optional and nothing is forced on you, it is a choice. In order to install an app from outside of Apple’s own AppStore, you will have to go to a specific third party app store and install an app from there. So nothing will self install for you, if you are worried about that.
Even if they made it work like Android, it's always a users choice to install an App outside of Google Play. Don't understand why Apple keeps fighting the EU on this.
Score: 2 Votes (Like | Disagree)
nsklaus Avatar
13 months ago
@Apple
any chance for handwriting support that does not destroy battery charge on ipad ?
currently using the pencil for 15minutes gulps 10% of ipad battery.
at this rate, total autonomy of ipad when using pencil is around 2h30..
that makes it similar to playing triple A gaming, that's a bit ridiculous for just making simple handwriten notes.

also please give an option to toggle automated shapes on/off
Score: 1 Votes (Like | Disagree)