Apple’s WWDC 2023 event was a spectacle that introduced us to the new 15-inch MacBook Air, M2 Ultra Mac Pro, and the highly-anticipated Apple Vision Pro, among others. Alongside the hardware, Apple also announced software updates for iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, AirPods, and more. However, due to time constraints, not all the features of iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 were discussed on stage.
The first developer beta of iOS 17, iPadOS 17, and other updates was released immediately after the event. Therefore, we’ve put together a list of iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 features that weren’t highlighted during the WWDC 2023 announcement, including three new Memojis, an improved Apple News+ experience, and the expansion of Communication Safety to other apps.
iOS 17 & iPadOS 17 features that skipped the spotlight
- A new AirDrop feature titled “finish transfer over the Internet” requires iCloud account login from both users.
- Apple News+ now includes crossword puzzles, and its Audio Stories are accessible through the Podcasts app.
- Communication Safety extends CSAM detection to FaceTime messages, Contact Posters, AirDrop, and third-party apps, offering an option to blur sensitive content.
- Lockdown Mode is now available on Apple Watch.
- Three new Memojis have been introduced: Peekaboo, Smirk, and Halo.
- Visual Lookup now supports paused video frames, can identify similar dish recipes in photos, and offers a new popover to search for information about a subject derived from an image.
- Safari has overhauled its Search feature to deliver more relevant and quicker results.
- The Reminders app now has a Grocery List that auto-categorizes items and memorizes user changes to the grouping. For iPadOS 17, the app features a new Column View mode to segregate sections into different columns.
- The Notes app can now link to a related note.
- Fitness app users can design their own workout or meditation plan and access a revamped Sharing tab displaying highlights.
- Apple Music users can now collaborate on playlists.
- Apple Maps enables users to choose their preferred electric vehicle (EV) charging network and view its availability in real time.
- Spotlight incorporates “app shortcuts” in search results, directing users straight to a specific part of an app.
- Sign-in to iPhone is simplified with the use of any email ID or number from account details, or via a nearby device.
iOS 17 specific features
- The Home app includes an “Activity History” section showing the past 30 days of activity from garage doors, smart locks, contact sensors, and security devices.
- Matter smart locks now support tap-to-unlock and PIN codes.
- The Find My app enables users to share AirTag or compatible accessories with up to five contacts.
- Autofill verification codes can be received via email.
- Passwords and passkeys can be shared with selected people or contacts.
- New Privacy protection allows apps to add calendar invites without accessing users’ calendars and only permits access to chosen photos.
- iOS 17 is not compatible with iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X. iPadOS 17 is incompatible with iPad Pro (1st generation) and iPad (fifth generation).
- The Journal app will be available later in 2023.