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Everything you need to know about the advantages of Apple's iOS 17

ios 17 features
September 9, 2025 by
Everything you need to know about the advantages of Apple's iOS 17
Rashmi Kanti

Table of Contents


Summary

iOS 17 brings a comprehensive set of features and enhancements, elevating the iPhone experience with improved performance, personalization, and privacy. The update introduces tools like StandBy, Contact Posters, Live Voicemail, interactive widgets, and the new Journal app, empowering users to engage more efficiently and creatively. Communication and productivity receive significant upgrades through Messages, FaceTime, Mail, and Apple Music improvements. Accessibility is strengthened with features such as Assistive Access, Live Speech, Point and Speak, and Screen Distance, making the OS inclusive for all users. For developers, iOS 17 offers new APIs, ARKit enhancements, and machine learning capabilities, enabling the creation of innovative, high-performance apps. QSS Technosoft leverages these advancements to deliver tailored, secure, and scalable iOS applications, helping businesses stay competitive and fully utilize the latest Apple ecosystem.


Introduction

In 2023, iPhone app design companyApple once again revolutionised the smartphone experience by releasing iOS 17. This update pleasantly surprised millions of iPhone users, bringing along an exciting range of features, fixes, and improvements. As avid tech enthusiasts, let us now cross through the details curious to get a better view of what this operating system has to offer, and also what it's incompatible with.  

To fully understand this update and its implications, this article breaks down the technical specifics of the most predominant operating system to date. Among its features, key changes and the pulsing of the current updates supplied by said system, as well as what to expect in the wholly new era of iOS 17. 

Leveraging the latest iOS features is becoming increasingly crucial for app development, as it enables developers to create more engaging, efficient, and user-friendly applications. Staying updated with the newest OS capabilities ensures new apps remain competitive and fully compatible with Apple’s evolving ecosystem. Embracing these advancements unlocks new possibilities for innovation and enhanced user experiences.

QSS Technosoft excels in developing innovative iOS applications that are expertly optimized for the latest OS versions. Our skilled team harnesses cutting-edge tools and features to deliver seamless, high-performance apps tailored to client needs. With a strong focus on quality and innovation, QSS Technosoft ensures your app stays ahead in the dynamic iOS landscape.

What’s New in iOS 17?

iOS 17 introduces a range of exciting new features designed to enhance both the user interface and overall performance of Apple’s iPhone operating system. Users will notice smoother animations, refined widget interactions, and improved customization options that make the home screen and lock screen more dynamic and personal. Privacy remains a key focus, with new tools to protect user data and prevent unwanted tracking.

Additionally, iOS 17 offers enhanced accessibility features and smarter on-device machine learning for more intuitive app experiences. These improvements collectively create a more seamless, secure, and engaging environment for iPhone users.

From an app functionality perspective, iOS 17 empowers developers with new APIs and interactive widgets that allow for richer user engagement without leaving the home screen. Performance upgrades reduce app load times and optimize background processes, ensuring smoother multitasking. Enhanced privacy controls give users greater transparency and control over their data, fostering trust.

Overall, these updates contribute to a more personalized, efficient, and secure user experience, encouraging developers to innovate and deliver apps that fully leverage the capabilities of the latest iOS version.

Advantages of iOS 17

Enhanced User Interface and Personalization

iOS 17 introduces redesigned UI elements that enable smoother and more intuitive navigation throughout the system. Users can customize widgets and lock screen options, making their devices truly personal and visually appealing. Interactive features such as interactive widgets and new Contact Posters add dynamic engagement opportunities.

App developers can leverage these enhancements to create more immersive and user-friendly experiences, increasing app engagement and satisfaction.iOS 17 introduces a feature called StandBy that activates when the iPhone is placed horizontally on a charger, displaying useful information at a glance.

Improved Performance and Speed

With iOS 17, Apple has optimized system resources to ensure faster app launch times and more efficient background processing. These improvements lead to better app responsiveness and smoother multitasking, enhancing overall user satisfaction.

By utilizing the latest performance enhancements, developers can build apps that feel more fluid and reliable, contributing to a superior user experience.

Advanced Privacy and Security Features

iOS 17 strengthens user privacy with new dashboards that provide transparency into app data usage and enhanced tracking protections. Secure permissions and features like Stolen Device Protection safeguard user data across apps.

These advancements empower users with greater control over their information and help developers build trust by adhering to stringent privacy standards.

Better Communication and Connectivity

Updates to Messages and FaceTime introduce features such as live voicemail transcription, video or audio message capabilities, and NameDrop for easy contact sharing. Improved contact integration allows seamless syncing across Apple devices.

Apps can integrate enhanced communication APIs to offer richer interaction options, fostering smoother and more engaging connectivity between users, including seamless handling of audio message features.

App Development Advantages

iOS 17 supports new APIs and ARKit improvements that enable developers to create innovative augmented reality experiences and cross-device functionalities. Features like the Journal app and interactive widgets open new avenues for app creativity.

QSS Technosoft leverages these iOS 17 capabilities to deliver custom apps that are cutting-edge, efficient, and tailored to client needs, ensuring competitive advantage in the market.

Smarter Keyboard and Typing Enhancements

iOS 17 introduces an advanced autocorrect system powered by a new machine learning model, offering more accurate word predictions and grammar corrections. Inline predictive text allows users to complete words and sentences effortlessly by tapping the spacebar.

The updated dictation feature uses a new speech recognition model, improving accuracy and responsiveness. Additionally, autocorrect now underlines corrected words, making it easy to revert to the original text with a simple tap.

iOS 17 for Businesses and Enterprises

Enhancing Productivity Tools

iOS 17 introduces powerful enhancements to productivity tools, enabling seamless multitasking and improved workflow management. Interactive widgets and smarter notifications help users stay organized and focused throughout the day.

The updated Files and Notes apps support better collaboration and document handling. These improvements empower businesses to boost efficiency and streamline daily operations.

Enterprise App Improvements

With iOS 17, enterprise apps benefit from new APIs and enhanced security features, ensuring robust data protection and smoother app performance. Developers can integrate advanced machine learning capabilities for smarter automation and personalized user experiences.

Support for offline maps and expanded contact sharing options facilitates easier communication and navigation in the field. These innovations help organizations deliver more effective and reliable mobile solutions.

QSS Technosoft’s Enterprise Solutions

QSS Technosoft leverages iOS 17’s latest features to build custom enterprise applications tailored to business needs. Our team focuses on integrating advanced security protocols and seamless user interfaces to enhance productivity.

We ensure compatibility with existing enterprise systems while utilizing new APIs for innovation. By harnessing iOS 17 capabilities, QSS Technosoft delivers scalable and efficient solutions that drive business growth.

Tips for App Developers to Maximize iOS 17 Advantages

Optimizing Apps for Battery Efficiency and Performance

App developers should focus on minimizing background activity to conserve battery life. Utilizing Apple's latest APIs for efficient resource management can enhance app responsiveness. Code optimization and reducing unnecessary network calls also contribute to better performance.

Testing apps on devices running iOS 17 helps identify and fix battery-draining issues. Regular updates incorporating user feedback ensure sustained efficiency and smooth operation, allowing developers to fully leverage the apple ios 17 advantages.

Incorporating iOS 17-Exclusive Features

Leverage interactive widgets to provide users with real-time, actionable information directly on the home and lock screens. Integrate Live Activities to keep users engaged with dynamic content updates without opening the app. Utilize the new APIs to customize Contact Posters, enhancing personalization and user interaction. Incorporate the Journal app’s Suggestions API to offer intelligent content recommendations. Embracing these features can significantly boost user engagement and app appeal.

Additionally, integrating Apple Pay within your apps can streamline secure payments, improving the overall user experience and convenience by ensuring secure authentication through Apple ID password verification. Take advantage of Visual Look Up enhancements that allow recognition of objects in paused video frames, providing richer contextual information and interactive possibilities within your apps.

Ensuring Compliance with Apple’s Privacy Guidelines

Implement strict data handling practices to protect user information and respect privacy preferences. Use on-device machine learning for sensitive tasks like image and video processing to avoid unnecessary data transmission.

Adopt Apple's Secure Enclave and encryption features to safeguard user credentials and sensitive data. Clearly communicate privacy policies and obtain explicit user consent where required. Staying updated with Apple's evolving privacy standards helps maintain user trust and official app store compliance.

17 Release and Updates

On September 18, 2023, Apple rolled out its initial release of iOS 17 to the public. Yet, just a few days later, Apple went on to issue iOS 17.0.1, addressing three zero-day security vulnerabilities that had the potential of being actively exploited.  

The very same day, Apple also released iOS 17.0.2 to specifically aesthetically address a bug that was affecting iPhone 15 models. This bug would cause difficulties in the data transfer process during setup, but the 17.0.2 update allowed for a smooth flow of data during installation. 

On September 27 , that same update was made available to any other iPhones users, allowing them the same safe setup process, and putting people's minds at ease.  

iOS 17.0.3 arrived on October 4, primarily to address an overheating issue, particularly affecting the iPhone 15 Pro. This update also included two security fixes.  

The most recent version of iOS 17 is iOS 17.1, released on October 25. It introduced several new features, including enhancements to AirDrop, StandBy options, Favourites in Apple Music app , and various bug fixes and security updates. 

iOS 17.1 New Features 

iOS 17.1, released on October 25, introduced several new features, enhancing the user experience. These features include:  

StandBy Settings

 Users can now choose when the display should turn off, whether automatically, after 20 seconds, or never. This feature is particularly useful for customising the device's behaviour according to individual preferences.  

Watch App Enhancements

 The Watch app now provides options to control double-tap actions for Apple Watch, offering more convenience for users. 

Apple Music Favourites

 Apple Music app gained a new “Favourites” feature, allowing users to personalise their music experience further. 

Continue AirDrops over the Internet

Sharing data between devices through AirDrop now continues even when out of range, making the process more seamless. 

New Generic Artwork for Apple Music Playlists

 Users can enjoy a fresh look for their Apple Music playlists with new generic artwork. 

iOS 17 Bugs and Issues 

Like any free software update, iOS 17 had its share of bugs and problems. Some of the issues reported by users include:  

Overheating

 iOS 17.0.3 addressed a problem causing the iPhone 15 Pro to overheat, providing a fix for this issue.  

Security

 Apple issued updates to address security flaws on September 21 and October 4, ensuring the safety of user data and devices.  

Performance Slowdowns and Battery Life

 Some users experienced performance issues, reduced battery life, or overheating after updating to iOS 17. These problems often resolve themselves as the device carries out background tasks related to the update. Restarting the iPhone may help alleviate these issues.  

Wi-Fi Connectivity

Post-update, some users encountered difficulties staying connected to Wi-Fi networks. Restarting the iPhone can often resolve this problem.  

Standby Time Zone Issue

 In some cases, the Standby mode displayed an incorrect time zone. A fix for this issue involved adding the correct time zone to the clock widget. 

iOS 17 Features 

iOS 17 introduced a wide array of new features and improvements. While initial rumours suggested there might be fewer major changes, Apple unveiled numerous enhancements at WWDC 2023. Some of the prominent features include:  

Journal

 This new app builds upon the Memories feature in Photos, offering a way to relieve special moments with text, location, and photos. It even includes a Suggestions API for developers to use in their apps. 

StandBy

 Borrowing from the Apple Watch, StandBy allows users to place their phone in landscape mode on a stand, displaying the time with various clock styles. Users can shuffle through their photos, display widgets, and see Live Activities, making it reminiscent of traditional alarm clocks. 

Contact Posters

 Personalise how you appear in calls and on your contact card by customising your poster with images, fonts, and colours. This feature works with Call Kit and can be used in third party app storesVOIP apps.  

Live Voicemail

When someone leaves a voicemail, iOS 17 displays a live transcript as they speak, enabling users to decide whether to answer the call based on the message content.Assistive Access provides a simpler iOS interface with large text and visual alternatives for essential features, helping reduce cognitive load.  

Phone Calls

The Phone app received updates, including changes to the Contacts button, in-call buttons, and icons. Contact Posters in iOS 17 allow users to create a customized look for cell service status that can include a photo or Memoji.

Additionally, the update supports features like active noise cancellation during calls, enhancing audio clarity and reducing background noise for a better communication experience.

FaceTime

 Users can now leave video messages in the FaceTime app when the recipient doesn't answer. Additionally, FaceTime calls can be taken on an Apple TV. 

Messages

 The Messages app is faster, and it introduces search filters to narrow down search results. Users can also jump to the first unread message in a group chat, swipe to reply on any bubble, and automatically transcribe audio messages. The new Check-In feature notifies family and friends when a user reaches their destination safely. 

Messages now supports audio message transcriptions to automatically convert voice messages into text. The remastered Messages app features search filters for refined search results and a catch-up arrow to jump to new messages in chats.

Ringtones and Text Tones

iOS 17 includes new ringtones and text tones, allowing users to personalise their device's audio alerts. Additionally, the update features conversation awareness that intelligently lowers media volume during phone calls to help users hear conversations more clearly.

Stickers

 All emojis in iOS 17 are now stickers that can be resized. Users can lift subjects from photos and turn them into stickers, including live animated photos. In iOS 17, all emoji characters are turned into stickers that can be used in various apps and messages

Stickers can now be directly sent in Messages by tapping any message bubble or created from subjects in photos.

AirDrop

Apple simplified the process of sharing information between devices through AirDrop, making it more user-friendly. A future update will enable AirDrop to continue over the internet, even if users leave before the transfer completes.  

  • Sharing documents with someone nearby just got easier! With AirDrop Proximity Sharing, you can initiate a file transfer just by holding your iPhone near theirs. Or, take advantage of the internet transfer feature, which lets you start a file transfer using AirDrop and finish it over iCloud. All you have to do is make sure both sharing participants are signed into iCloud!  

  • SharePlayInitiation takes it a step further and lets you link two iPhones together, initiating an awesome two-person, multi-device interactive session. Connect with someone near you and enjoy a movie, play music together, or even challenge each other to a game–all with just the press of a button.  

NameDrop

This new feature simplifies contact info exchange through AirDrop, eliminating the need to make missed calls for sharing contact details. 

Keyboard and Dictation

Autocorrect is more accurate than ever, offering options to revert to the original word. Predictions appear in line as users type, with machine learning adapting autocorrect based on writing style. Dictation leverages a new speech recognition model for increased accuracy.  

Hey Siri

 Users no longer need to say “Hey” before summoning Siri. Siri's improved accuracy and the ability to handle multiple requests in the same command enhance the voice assistant's functionality. 

Photos

 The People album now uses on-device machine learning to recognize favourite people, cats, and dogs in photos. The Photos app includes a new batch editing feature that allows users to apply edits to multiple photos at once.

Safari and Private Browsing

Safari introduces a Profiles feature to separate work-related and personal browsing. Users can choose different default search engines for private browsing, and the search function is more responsive and user-friendly. 

Safari in iOS 17 allows users to create profiles to separate work and personal browsing activities, enhancing privacy and organization. Private browsing in Safari is protected by Face ID, providing an additional layer of security.

Apple Music

 Collaborative Apple Music playlists are expected in a later update, allowing users to share, edit, and reorder songs in shared playlists. Apple Music subscription enhances user experience with a new Focus Filter to manage Listening History for kids and manages song recommendations accordingly.

Productivity and App Enhancements

iOS 17 boosts productivity with interactive widgets and smarter notifications, while app improvements enable seamless multitasking and enhanced collaboration features.The Mail app now supports FaceTime now supports leaving video or audio messages for missed calls, similar to voicemail for phone calls.automatic filling of verification codes received via email directly in Safari

.The Messages app in iOS 17 features a cleaner interface with access to apps and new drawing tools through a new '+' button.

Enhanced Health App Features

iOS 17 introduces new mental health capabilities, allowing users to log their moods and track emotional patterns over time. The Health app offers assessments for anxiety and depression, helping users gain insights into their well-being.

Additionally, a Screen Distance tool uses the TrueDepth camera to encourage healthier device usage habits and reduce eye strain.Using the TrueDepth camera, the Health app includes a Screen Distance tool that encourages users to hold their device farther away to reduce eye strain.

Weather App Upgrades

iOS 17 enhances the Weather app with a new interactive moon module that displays detailed information about moon phases, moonrise, and moonset times. Users can now access more precise precipitation forecasts and wind maps for better planning.

The app also offers customizable widgets for quick access to weather conditions directly from the Home Screen or Lock Screen.

Compatibility and Device Support

iOS 17 is compatible with iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and later models, including the second- and third-generation iPhone SE. It does not support older devices such as the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X.

Some features may be limited on certain devices due to hardware requirements.iOS 17 does not support the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X. Older iPhone models that are incompatible with iOS 17 will still receive security updates for a limited time.iOS 17 is compatible with the second- and third-generation iPhone SE.

Accessibility Enhancements

iOS 17 introduces a feature called Assistive Access, providing a simplified interface with large text and visual alternatives to reduce cognitive load. Personal Voice allows users at risk of losing their ability to speak to create a voice that sounds like theirs.

Additionally, Live Speech enables typed words to be spoken aloud during calls and conversations, enhancing communication for users with speech impairments.Live Speech allows typed words to be spoken during phone calls, FaceTime calls, and in-person conversations.Point and Speak is a feature that reads text out loud from physical objects for those with low vision or blindness.

Health and Wellbeing

iOS 17 introduces new mental health features that allow users to log their daily moods and track emotional patterns over time. The Health app offers assessments for anxiety and depression, providing valuable insights into user wellbeing.

Additionally, the Screen Distance tool encourages healthier device usage by reminding users to maintain an appropriate distance from their screens to reduce eye strain.iOS 17 includes a number of accessibility features that enhance usability for individuals with disabilities.Screen Distance encourages users, especially children, to maintain an appropriate distance from screens to reduce eye strain.

Future Trends and iOS Development

Emerging Technologies Supported by iOS 17

iOS 17 continues to push the boundaries of technology by supporting cutting-edge features like augmented reality (AR), artificial intelligence (AI) integration, and advanced health tracking. The enhanced ARKit enables developers to create immersive and interactive experiences, blending digital content with the real world seamlessly.

Additionally, iOS 17 introduces a new listening mode that enhances audio experiences by dynamically adapting sound settings to the user's environment, providing clearer and more personalized audio output. Moreover, iOS 17 incorporates compliance with the Digital Markets Act, allowing users in certain regions to install apps through alternative app marketplaces and third-party app stores, broadening app accessibility and choice.

AI integration allows apps to leverage on-device machine learning for smarter, faster, and more personalized user interactions. Health tracking advancements in iOS 17 provide users with deeper insights into their mental and physical well-being, including mood logging and anxiety assessments.

These technologies open new doors for app developers to innovate and deliver transformative experiences that resonate with users’ evolving needs.

Additionally, iOS 17 supports seamless integration with devices like Apple Vision Pro, enabling immersive augmented reality experiences that further enhance app functionality and user engagement.

Preparing for Upcoming iOS Updates and Staying Ahead in App Innovation

To stay competitive in the fast-evolving iOS ecosystem, developers must proactively prepare for upcoming iOS updates by keeping abreast of Apple’s announcements and beta releases. Embracing new APIs and system capabilities early enables the creation of apps that fully utilize the latest hardware and software features.

This preparation also includes understanding how users can install apps from official and alternative sources, adapting to changes such as the ability to install apps through third party app stores where applicable.

Continuous learning and adaptation are key, as Apple regularly introduces enhancements in privacy, performance, and user experience. Leveraging tools like on-device machine learning and interactive widgets can differentiate apps in a crowded market. By anticipating user expectations and incorporating innovative functionalities, developers can ensure their apps remain relevant and engaging well into the future.

Are You Looking for an iOS App Development Partner? Choose QSS Technosoft Inc for Seamless Collaboration and Exceptional Results.

QSS Technosoft Inc is an unparalleled experience when it comes to iPhone application development company. Our development team consists of experienced and highly skilled specialists skilled in creating intuitive and innovative applications to meet all of your needs.

We have the capability to keep up with the constantly changing trends and technologies in the industry, resulting in apps that stay in the digital forefront. 

Why Choose QSS Technosoft for iOS 17 App Development?

  • Expertise in integrating iOS 17 features such as interactive widgets, Live Activities, and enhanced machine learning.

  • Commitment to robust security practices, including compliance with Apple’s privacy guidelines and Stolen Device Protection and end to end encrypted

  • Scalable architecture design to accommodate growth and evolving business needs.

  • Focus on intuitive UI/UX that enhances engagement and retention.

Successful iOS Apps Developed by QSS Technosoft

  • Health Tracker Pro
    A comprehensive health monitoring app that utilizes iOS 17’s new Health app integrations and mood tracking features to provide personalized wellness insights.

  • TravelMate
    An offline navigation app featuring downloaded maps and real-time EV, wireless charging station information, optimized for seamless use without cellular connectivity.

  • ChatEase Messenger
    A secure messaging app leveraging iOS 17’s Contact Key Verification and enhanced privacy features to ensure safe and trustworthy communication.

  • FitLife Journal
    A journaling app inspired by iOS 17’s Journal app, incorporating on-device machine learning for smart content suggestions and secure data encryption.

  • ShopSmart
    A retail app with interactive widgets and Apple Pay integration, designed to streamline shopping experiences and facilitate quick, secure payments.

  • MusicConnect
    A music streaming app that supports collaborative playlists and adaptive audio features, providing users with a dynamic and personalized listening experience.

Partner with QSS Technosoft to harness the full potential of iOS 17 and deliver innovative, high-quality apps that stand out in the competitive Apple ecosystem.

Furthermore, we have a solid history of successful completion delivering timely, high quality applications that remain within our client's budget. Communication and mutual understanding is what keeps us at the top of the mobile services pack.

We make sure to discuss every part of the development process with our clients and thereby we effectively implement their vision into a usable and engaging digital product.

Last but not least, comprehensive 24/7 post-launch support is guaranteed at QSS Technosoft. We remain at your side until your iphone app developer company

Read Also: iOS 11 Public Beta 7

Conclusion

iOS 17 has brought a host of exciting features and improvements to iPhones, making it feel like a new device without the need for a costly upgrade. The continuous rollout of updates ensures that Apple addresses issues and enhances the user experience. As Apple continues to evolve its operating system, users can expect even more exciting features in the future, making the iOS app companyy a central part of their digital lives.

Adapting apps to new OS features like interactive widgets and enhanced machine learning in iOS 17 is crucial for delivering superior user engagement and optimized performance. Leveraging these capabilities ensures apps remain competitive and provide a seamless, personalized experience. Staying current with OS advancements helps developers unlock innovative functionalities that delight users and boost retention.

Partnering with QSS Technosoft empowers businesses to harness the full potential of iOS 17 through expert app development tailored to the latest features. Our skilled team delivers high-quality, efficient, and innovative solutions that drive growth and user satisfaction. Collaborate with us to stay ahead in the evolving Apple ecosystem and maximize your app’s impact.

Connect for a free consultation on your project over a skype call!

We are proud to mention that our work has been recognized by leading B2B reviews and research platforms like GoodFirms, Clutch, MirrorView, and many more.


FAQs Section

Q: What are the main advantages of Apple iOS 17?
A: iOS 17 offers improved performance, better privacy and security, new communication features, enhanced personalization, and support for developers to create innovative apps.

Q: Can I install iOS 17 on my iPhone?
A: iOS 17 is compatible with iPhone XR and newer models. Older models like iPhone 8 and iPhone X are not supported.

Q: What is the new Journal app in iOS 17?
A: The Journal app helps you record your thoughts and daily activities with suggestions based on your photos, music, and workouts.

Q: How does Live Voicemail work?
A: Live Voicemail shows a real-time transcription of voicemail messages on your screen, so you can decide whether to answer the call.

Q: What is StandBy mode?
A: StandBy mode turns your iPhone into a smart display showing clocks, photos, and widgets when charging in landscape orientation.

Q: Can I share contact info easily with iOS 17?
A: Yes, NameDrop lets you share contact details by bringing two iPhones close together.

Q: Are there new privacy features in iOS 17?
A: Yes, iOS 17 adds stronger privacy protections including Stolen Device Protection and sensitive content warnings.

Q: What improvements are there for typing and dictation?
A: Autocorrect is more accurate with better predictions, and dictation uses a new speech recognition model for improved accuracy.

Q: Can I use FaceTime on Apple TV?
A: Yes, you can take FaceTime calls on Apple TV using your iPhone as the camera.

Q: Does iOS 17 support offline maps?
A: Yes, you can download maps to use offline with turn-by-turn directions.


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