iOS 17 will be available for public download on September 18, introducing iPhone users to new features like Live Voicemail, StandBy mode, and a new Journal app. Apple made the announcement Tuesday at its iPhone 15 launch event after the operating system was first unveiled at WWDC on June 5.
The full version of iPadOS 17 will also launch on September 18, adding new ways for iPad users to interact with widgets and personalize their lock screen. iPadOS 17 is compatible with sixth-generation iPad models, fifth-generation iPad mini, third-generation iPad Air, and second-generation iPad Pro 12.9-inch models or later. A full list of compatible models can be found on Apple’s website.
With iOS 17, you can finally activate Siri without saying “hey” first
After the full release, iOS 17 users will be able to create customizable stickers, set up contact posters, and take advantage of several improvements to autocorrect and voice transcription. You can also activate Siri without having to say “hey” first, and the new Live Voicemail feature displays a live transcript on your screen while recording a voicemail if you don’t answer your phone. We especially like the new StandBy mode, which turns your iPhone into a little bedside table when you lay it on its side.
NameDrop also allows iOS 17 users to easily share contact information via AirDrop by bringing two iPhone devices together. Apple warned in the fine print of its press release that some of these iOS 17 features may not be available to all countries or regions, so you’ll need to check Apple’s website if you have something specific in mind.
Some people have had access to the latest iPhone operating system for a while now, so we already had a good idea of what to expect. For example, members of Apple’s developer program were able to download it almost immediately after the WWDC keynote, and the first public beta launched on July 12. iOS 17 is only compatible with iPhone models equipped with the A12 Bionic chip or newer, which unfortunately means that the iPhone XR/XS will be the oldest models that can download the update.
You can check which iPhone models are compatible on Apple’s website, as well as a full overview of all fixes, features and updates for iOS 17.