Apple Rumored to Introduce Significant Changes in iOS 17

iOS users have been requesting for more widgets, home and lock screen customization, and other basic features that have long been available on Android. With iOS 16, Apple finally granted some of these requests, and now, rumors suggest that iOS 17 might bring even more changes.

Earlier reports had claimed that iOS 17 would be a performance improvement and bug fix update, but according to Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, the update might bring about more significant changes than initially expected. One of the anticipated features of iOS 17 is the ability to sideload apps. After the European Union (EU) passed the digital markets act last year, companies like Apple would be required by law to open up their operating system for other companies to freely engage their business on.

In addition to the possibility of sideloading apps, there are also rumors that iOS 17 might bring other significant changes, although these are yet to be revealed. iOS 17 is expected to be announced at Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) this June and launched alongside the upcoming iPhone 15 model in the fall.

Meanwhile, Apple recently announced iOS and iPadOS 16.4, which includes bug fixes and minor changes. The update features 21 new emojis, including new heart colors, animals, and more. Other updates include notifications for web apps on the home screen, improved voice isolation for phone calls, and improvements in crash detection.

A new accessibility setting that automatically dims videos when there are flashing lights or strobe effects playing has also been introduced. The complete list of release notes for iOS and iPadOS 16.4 can be found on Apple's website.