Last week, Apple released the fourth beta version of its upcoming iOS 17.4 update for the iPhone. While the company is expected to release the fifth development beta on Tuesday, the final release is fast approaching. The iOS 17.4 update is hugely important to Apple as well as developers, bringing an ongoing impact on how users install apps on the iPhone. The platform will host a host of changes for the App Store, so check back when iOS 17.4 is released to the general public for all compatible iPhone models.
Apple will release the iOS 17.4 update for iPhone ahead of the March 6 EU deadline
It was previously reported that Apple has until March 6 to introduce new features and changes imposed by the EU under the Digital Markets Act. This means that the update will be released ahead of schedule. Apple confirmed in its press release that the iOS 17.4 update will be released for the iPhone in March. Although the company did not mention the exact date, we can estimate that the update will arrive before March 6.
Developers can learn more about these changes on Apple’s developer support page and can start testing the new features in iOS 17.4 beta today. The new options will become available to users in 27 EU countries at the beginning of March 2024.
If Apple fails to comply with EU regulations under the Digital Markets Act, it will have to pay hefty fines. From now on, we have a rough idea of when the company might 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 ton of changes to the App Store. For the first time, users will be able to download apps outside of the App Store.
In addition, iOS 17.4 will also include additional guidelines for developers to offer their own or alternative app stores to the general public. Additionally, developers can also choose to include their own payment methods. However, Apple’s fee structure has left third-party developers confused at this stage. While final details are scarce at this point, we’ll share more information about the system’s execution as soon as further details become available.
Please note that the App Store and developer changes are only applicable in EU countries. Additionally, iOS 17.4 will also feature significant upgrades for the rest of the world. The update will include new Podcast transcripts, new security protocols for iMessage, new emojis, and more. Let us know in the comments what features you’re most looking forward to with the iOS 17.4 update.