Apple has officially released iOS 17.2, a significant update that introduces the much-anticipated Journal app and implements notable changes to Apple Music. This release marks the second major update following iOS 17.1, which was launched on October 25.
After a series of beta tests, iOS 17.2 is now available for public installation on iPhones.
A highlight of this update is the Journal app, a feature that was absent in the initial iOS 17 release. Designed to enhance user experience, the Journal app allows individuals to create daily posts, incorporating photos, audio clips, and locations. This provides a reflective and personalized digital diary for users to look back on.
In addition to the Journal app, iOS 17.2 introduces Spatial Video recording for the iPhone 15 Pro. This cutting-edge feature enables users to capture immersive video content, which can be later enjoyed on the upcoming Apple Vision Pro, slated for release in early 2024.
Apple Music also sees several enhancements. A new Favorites playlist has been created, automatically aggregating songs liked by the user. Additionally, a Focus Filter has been added to the Apple Music Listening History, offering the option to disable the addition of tracks played by the user or others.
The Messages app gains a new dimension with the introduction of sticker responses. This feature allows users to add stickers or emojis to messages, providing a fun alternative to the traditional tapback reaction. Furthermore, the iMessage Contact Key Verification has been integrated, ensuring secure and private communication between users.
For iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max users, the Action Button now includes a Translate feature, further expanding its utility.
The Apple TV app has undergone a transformation, notably with the removal of the Movies and TV shows tabs from the Store. This update also brings new Weather widget options, including Details and Daily Forecast, as well as a new Digital Clock widget.
Other updates include a Fast Fade page-turning animation in the Books app, the addition of Bodies to Memoji, Live Activities support in the News app, and a rainbow-colored text option in Contact Posters.
To manually update to iOS 17.2, users should navigate to the Settings app and select General, then Software Update, and follow the on-screen instructions if the update is available for their device.
