Apple recently released the first beta of iOS 17.5, and it packs several notable new features and changes. While the update includes some minor design tweaks and additions. The biggest focus is on compliance with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act. Let’s dive into what’s new in iOS 17.5 Beta.
Recent Released: What is Beeper App iOS?
Web App Distribution for EU Users
The centerpiece of iOS 17.5 Beta is the new “Web Distribution” capability for users in the European Union. This feature is a direct response to the Digital Markets Act (DMA) being enforced by the European Commission. Which aims to promote fair competition and consumer choice in digital markets.
With Web Distribution, users in the EU will be able to download apps directly from a developer’s website instead of being restricted to the App Store. This change could have far-reaching implications for the app ecosystem. As it introduces an alternative distribution channel for apps on iOS devices.
To participate in Web Distribution, developers will need to opt into updated App Store business terms and adhere to Apple’s notarization guidelines. These guidelines are designed to ensure that apps distributed through this method meet certain security and privacy standards.
It’s important to note that Web Distribution is currently limited to users in the EU. Users in other regions will still need to download apps through the App Store as usual.
Design Changes and Tweaks
While the Web Distribution feature steals the spotlight, iOS 17.5 Beta also brings a few subtle design changes and tweaks to various apps and features.
Podcasts Widget Gets Dynamic Colors
The Podcasts widget has received a fresh coat of paint. The widget now changes color based on the artwork of the podcast you’re currently listening to, adding a touch of dynamism to your Home Screen.
How to Updated Reading Goal Icon in Apple Books
Apple has redesigned the “Reading Goal” icon in the top navigation bar of the Apple Books app. The new icon should be more visually appealing and easier to identify at a glance.
New Glyph for Passkeys Access in Settings
Under the “Privacy & Security” section of the Settings app. There’s a new glyph for the “Passkeys Access for Web Browsers” menu. This change likely aims to improve visual consistency and clarity within the Settings app.
Anti-Stalking Capabilities for Accessories
iOS 17.5 Beta introduces a new system centered around anti-stalking capabilities for accessories like AirTags. This system will be able to identify tracking accessories even if they are not Apple or Find My certified, potentially enhancing user privacy and security.
What New Puzzle Game in Apple News+
For Apple News+ subscribers, there’s a new puzzle game called “Quartiles” available in the News app. In this game, players are given a grid of 20 tiles with parts of words. They must combine these tiles to form different words. It’s a fun way to exercise your brain while enjoying your News+ subscription.
Expected Release Timeline
Apple typically releases several beta versions of a software update before the final public release. Based on Apple’s historical release patterns, we can expect iOS 17.5 to be available to the general public sometime in mid-May.
However, it’s worth noting that release timelines can change, and Apple may introduce additional features or changes in subsequent beta versions before the final release.
Useful Table: New Features in iOS 17.5 Beta
| Feature | Description |
| Web Distribution (EU Only) | Allows users in the EU to download apps directly from developer websites instead of the App Store. |
| Dynamic Podcasts Widget | The Podcasts widget changes color based on the artwork of the currently playing podcast. |
| Updated Reading Goal Icon | The “Reading Goal” icon in the Apple Books app has been redesigned. |
| New Passkeys Glyph | A new glyph for “Passkeys Access for Web Browsers” in the Settings app. |
| Anti-Stalking for Accessories | Can identify tracking accessories even if they’re not Apple or Find My certified. |
| Quartiles Puzzle Game | A new word puzzle game in the Apple News+ app. |
Conclusion
iOS 17.5 Beta is a significant update, particularly for users in the European Union. The Web Distribution feature is a direct response to the Digital Markets Act and could potentially reshape the app ecosystem in the EU by introducing an alternative distribution channel.
While the Web Distribution feature is the star of the show. Apple has also included several smaller design changes and additions, such as the dynamic Podcasts widget, updated Reading Goal icon, and a new puzzle game for News+ subscribers.
As with any beta release, it’s essential to exercise caution when installing iOS 17.5 Beta on your primary devices, as there may be bugs and performance issues. However, for developers and early adopters, this beta provides an exciting glimpse into the future of iOS and the changes Apple is making to comply with evolving regulations.
As we approach the expected public release in mid-May, it will be interesting to see if Apple introduces any additional features or changes in subsequent beta versions. Stay tuned for further updates and analysis on what’s new in iOS 17.5.
