NEWS  Apple  January 12, 2024  Reading time: 2 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

Apple users are waiting for the arrival of iOS 17.3, the latest software update for iPhones, which promises to bring a host of new features and improvements. The highlight of this update is the introduction of Stolen Device Protection, a groundbreaking security feature aimed at safeguarding users' digital lives in case of theft.

As of now, iOS 17.3 is in the beta testing phase, with the recent release of beta 3, following a brief hiccup with the removal of beta 2 on January 3. The unexpected deletion was triggered by a glitch that caused some users' phones to enter a perpetual boot loop, prompting Apple to take swift action.

The reissued beta, now labeled iOS 17.3 beta 3, was made available to developers on January 9, followed by the release of the public beta on January 10. This, however, brings forth a peculiar nomenclature quirk – public beta 3 technically being the second version, as public beta 2 was canceled due to issues encountered in the developer beta.

The burning question remains: has Apple managed to overcome the challenges posed by the boot loop problem, or have they utilized this opportunity to introduce further changes to the software? While the precise details are shrouded in secrecy, the prolonged interval between the removal and reissue of the beta suggests potential for more comprehensive alterations.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the final release date, it is reasonable to speculate that iOS 17.3 will still see the light of day within this month. Initial speculations hinted at a potential release on Tuesday, January 16, but recent developments cast doubt on this timeframe.

Looking ahead, the week starting Monday, January 22, is not entirely ruled out, but indications lean toward the week commencing Monday, January 29, aligning with Apple's preference for Tuesday releases – in this case, January 30. Apple's intrinsic desire to avoid delays is palpable, as each setback reverberates through subsequent software releases.

Could the release date be pushed further into February? While plausible, the impending launch of the Apple Vision Pro on Friday, February 2, suggests a strategic alignment for iOS 17.3 to precede this significant event. The potential integration of features related to Apple Vision Pro might be a contributing factor to the delay, as Apple ensures a seamless user experience across its ecosystem.

 IMAGES CREDIT: APPLE