Here's a look at some of the top features coming to Apple iPhones when the stable build of iOS 17.4 launches around March.

Soon, iPhone users can expect these features with the upcoming iOS 17.4 update.

Adarsh V.KJanuary 26, 24 Apple, iOS, iPhone

Just a few days after the release of the stable build of iOS 17.3, Apple has released the iOS 17.4 developer beta, which includes a number of feel-good, functional and regulatory changes.

Here’s a look at some of the most important changes coming to Apple iPhones while you download the iOS 17.4 developer beta or wait for the official stable version to arrive on your iOS 17-enabled device around March. However, keep in mind that most of these features are limited to the EU.

iOS 17.4: Here’s what’s new

Sideloading and third-party app stores

This update has a lot to do with the legislative changes Apple has made to comply with EU DMA requirements. In iOS 17.4, iPhone users in EU countries will soon have the option of using alternative app stores instead of relying solely on the App Store to download apps and games. This allows users to download apps from anywhere they want to do so.

Choose your default browser

Again, this only applies to the EU, but when these users upgrade to iOS 17.4, Safari will allow them to choose their default browser on iOS. This can be handy for someone who wants to use a browser other than Safari.

New emojis

Emojis are always a fun addition to an update, and with iOS 17.4, users get six new emojis – mushroom, phoenix, nodding emoji, life, and even the saying no emoji.

Stolen device protection

This feature adds an additional layer of protection on top of iOS’s already existing measures. These steps help protect your phone when thieves try to steal your iPhone and access important apps like iCloud, banking apps, private emails, and more. The effectiveness comes from the requirement that thieves not only enter your lock screen password, but also scan Face ID or Touch ID without a fallback password when trying to access important apps or saved passwords.

In addition, you also have a 1-hour cooldown period following the additional biometric authentication before you do any security stuff.

Podcast subtitles

Just like the Apple Music experience you get with the Music app, the Podcasts app now offers a transcript of what’s being talked about in a podcast. This can be a handy addition if you want to use some of it as text.