Apple Launches iOS 17.1 with Bug Fixes, AirDrop, StandBy and More
Apple has finally released iOS 17.1, a day later than anticipated. This update includes various bug fixes and introduces features like AirDrop and StandBy. While many of these features were already known, their specifics and release were uncertain until now. Let’s delve into what Apple has in store for iPhone users.
iOS 17.1 features
The update includes a bunch of new features, improvements, and bug fixes that will make life much better for iPhone users. The biggest highlight is the update to Apple Music and improvements to AirDrop.
Apple Music Updates: In iOS 17.1, you can now add your favorite songs, albums, and playlists. The Music app includes new filtering options to display your favorites. In addition, a library of artwork is available for customizing playlists. At the bottom of their playlists, users will find smart song suggestions that match the mood of the playlist.
Improved AirDrop features: The update brings an improved AirDrop feature that allows data transfer to continue over the Internet even when devices move out of range. Users now have the option to use mobile data alongside Wi-Fi for AirDrop transfers.
Apple Wallet Features: For UK users, iOS 17.1 introduces Connected Cards, which displays bank account balances and transaction history. In the US, the feature is available through a direct partnership with Discover, although expansion to more banks is expected. There is no update on when other regions may get this feature.
Standby improvements: Apple has added a new Display section to the StandBy settings. It now includes some new customization options. The screen can now be turned off either automatically, after 20 seconds, or never. A night mode feature has also been added to the screen section, which shows the StandBy screen with a red tint and low ambient lighting. The Motion to Wake option has also been moved here.
Flashlight Indicator on Dynamic Island: The new flashlight indicator that originally debuted on the iPhone 15 Pro is now available for iPhone 14 Pro users running iOS 17.1.
Photo shuffle on the lock screen: iOS 17.1 fixes a long-standing issue with the Photo Shuffle feature on the lock screen. It now allows users to select a specific album for Photo Shuffle.
Other bug fixes: Some fixes include improved Home key support for Matter locks, improved reliability for syncing Screen Time settings across devices, and a fix for custom ringtones and keyboard responsiveness issues.
In addition, Apple has released the iPadOS 17.1 update, which also includes corresponding feature updates.
