Apple begins general availability of “iOS 17” and “iPadOS 17”

Apple begins general availability of iOS 17 and iPadOS 17

Apple began general availability of iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 on September 18th (Japan time). Testing has been going on since June, but the official version is finally being released.

iOS 17

“iOS 17” has enhanced communication tools such as “phone,” “FaceTime,” and “messaging.” In addition to being able to design a “contact poster” that is displayed on the other party’s device with your favorite photos and Memoji, there is also a “live answering machine” that helps you decide whether to answer or not when you receive a call, and the other party can be sent to “FaceTime”. It also supports features such as leaving an audio or video message if you do not answer a call.

In addition, AirDrop has added a new sharing method called “NameDrop,” which allows you to easily share contact information between iPhones or by simply bringing your iPhone and Apple Watch close together. Another notable feature is “Standby,” which displays various information and content in full screen while the iPhone is charging, allowing you to use your iPhone like a smart speaker.

“Standby” displays various information and content in full screen while charging the iPhone

Other updates include keyboard features, widgets, Safari, Music, AirPlay, and more.

Compatible devices are as follows. Please note that iPhone X and iPhone 8 series are not supported and cannot be upgraded.

iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max
iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max
iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max
iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max
iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max
iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR
iPhone SE (2nd generation or later)

iPadOS 17

In “iPadOS 17”, the lock screen design has been completely redesigned, and it can now be customized flexibly like in “iOS 16.” You can also view photos and check information at a glance using widgets.

The Messages app has also been enhanced. A new sticker drawer is now supported, giving you access to all live stickers, emojis, and Memoji. Stickers are synced with iCloud and available on iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

Other improvements include optimizing the “Healthcare” app for larger screens, enhancing PDF and “Memo”, improving the stage manager, and supporting meetings that use the built-in camera of external displays.

Compatible devices are as follows. Please note that the 1st generation iPad Pro and 5th generation iPad are not compatible and cannot be upgraded from iPadOS 16.

iPad Pro 12.9 inch (2nd generation or later)
iPad Pro 10.5-inch
iPad Pro 11 inch (1st generation or later)
iPad Air (3rd generation or later)
iPad (6th generation or later)
iPad mini (5th generation or later)

How to update

“iOS 17” and “iPadOS 17” are provided as free updates and can be updated from the “General” – “Software Update” section of the “Settings” app. “iOS 17” and “iPadOS 17” have major changes, so we can fully expect some serious defects. We strongly recommend that you back up your data before updating. For the time being, it is possible to stay with the “iOS 16” and “iPadOS 16” series.