iOS 17 Release Date & Supported Devices: Everything You Need to Know

Even before the official release of iOS 16, many users have been waiting for iOS 17. iOS 16 introduced several new features, but the battery drain issue has been a headache for iPhone users.

Many even claim iOS 16 as the worst iOS update. Hence, it is not surprising why users are eagerly anticipating the release of iOS 17.

Here, I am going to tell you everything you need to know about iOS 17, including its release date, supported devices, and expected new features.

Release Date

Traditionally, iOS 17 will be unveiled at Apple’s WWDC in June 2023, providing developers with an exclusive preview of the features and improvements coming to their platform.

On the same day, the iOS 17 beta will be released for developers. A public beta release is likely to follow soon after, in July 2023, giving users a chance to experience the software and provide feedback to Apple.

Finally, iOS 17 will be released to all users in September 2023, simultaneously with the release of Apple’s iPhone 15 series.

Supported Devices

Every year, Apple drops support for the latest iOS update for the old iPhones. iOS 16 dropped support for the iPhone 7 and older devices, so this is the list of iOS 17 compatible iPhones:

• iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max
• iPhone SE (2nd generation)
• iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max
• iPhone XR
• iPhone X

Compared to iOS 16, iOS 17 drops support for a few older devices, including the iPhone 8. This means that some users will have to upgrade their devices in order to use the latest software features.

iOS 17 New Features (Expected)

Support for Third-party App Stores

Apple is planning to allow sideloading and third-party app stores in Europe starting in 2024. This could potentially impact iOS 17 development due to the engineering resources required to implement these changes.

Support for the Mixed Reality Headset

Apple’s upcoming AR/VR headset will likely have integration with the iPhone through iOS 17, allowing for new headset-related features. The headset will have its own App Store, but may also interact with the iPhone using features like Handoff.

Third-Party Browsers Without WebKit

In response to Europe’s Digital Markets Act, Apple may withdraw a rule that forces third-party web browsers such as Firefox and Chrome to use Apple’s WebKit. So, with iOS 17, it is possible that such web browsers will be allowed to use their own engines. However, it is not yet clear if this change will be limited to Europe or applied worldwide.

CarPlay Updates

Apple showcased a new CarPlay experience at the 2022 WWDC that offers deeper integration with vehicles, allowing for volume and radio controls through CarPlay. iOS 17 is expected to include these updates, as the first vehicles with the new CarPlay integration are set to launch in late 2023.