Apple is set to release iOS 17.1, the first major update for iOS 17, which brings new features, bug fixes, and performance improvements to iPhone users.
According to a French regulatory group, the update is expected to be available by October 24- which was, um, yesterday.
Update: Apple has released iOS 17.1 on the 25th of October.
This update enhances your iPhone experience with favourites in Apple Music, customization in StandBy mode, continuation in AirDrop transfers, and enhancements in FaceTime (Sorry UAE folks).
Plus, it fixes some annoying issues that users have reported with iOS 17. Here are some of the highlights of iOS 17.1 and how to download it on your iPhone:
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New Features of iOS 17.1
Here are some of the new features you can expect in iOS 17.1 when it is released.
Favorites in Apple Music
You can now mark songs, albums, and playlists as favorites in Apple Music and filter your library to show only your favorites. You can also see song suggestions at the bottom of every playlist based on the vibe of your playlist.
Additionally, you can choose from a new collection of cover art designs that change colors to match your music.
StandBy customization:
StandBy mode turns your iPhone into a bedside clock while charging, showing the time, date, and other information. You can now customize when StandBy mode turns off automatically (when the room is dark and your iPhone isn’t in use), after 20 seconds, or never.
You can also view live activities in full screen, such as the score of a game or your workout progress.
AirDrop transfers
AirDrop lets you share files with nearby devices using Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. With iOS 17.1, you can continue AirDrop transfers over Wi-Fi or cellular networks once initiated.
This means you don’t have to stay close to the other device for the transfer to complete. You can enable this feature from Settings > General > AirDrop.
FaceTime enhancements
FaceTime gets some new features and improvements in iOS 17.1. You can now record a video or audio message when someone misses your FaceTime call and send it to them with a tap.
You can also react with your hands during FaceTime, and fill the camera frame with fun 3D effects like hearts, confetti, fireworks, and more.
Moreover, you can use your iPhone as a camera and start a FaceTime call directly from the Apple TV app or hand off the call from your iPhone to your TV.
Bug Fixes and Performance Improvements
iOS 17.1 also fixes some issues that users have reported with iOS 17, such as:
- Significant Location notifications not appearing or appearing too frequently
- Incoming calls not displaying the correct region information
- Image persistence or burn-in on some iPhone models
- Random reboots or crashes on some iPhone models
The update also improves the stability and security of iOS 17 and optimizes your iPhone’s battery life and performance.
These are the iPhones you can get iOS 17.1 on
iOS 17.1 is compatible with all iPhones that can run iOS 17, which are:
- iPhone 15 series
- iPhone 14 series
- iPhone SE (2nd generation)
- iPhone 11 series
- iPhone XR
- iPhone XS series
- iPhone X
- iPhone 8 series
- iPhone 7 series
- iPhone SE (1st generation)
- iPhone 6s series
- iPod touch (7th generation)
How can you update to iOS 17.1
To download iOS 17.1 on your iPhone, follow these steps:
- Make sure your iPhone is connected to a Wi-Fi network and has enough battery charge.
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Tap Download and Install when you see the iOS 17.1 update available.
- Enter your passcode if prompted.
- Wait for the download and installation to complete.
- Enjoy the new features and fixes of iOS 17.1.
iOS 17.1 is a major update that enhances the features and performance of your iPhone. Make sure you download it as soon as it’s available and enjoy the benefits of iOS 17.1.
Let us know if you discover something in this update that we might have missed.