iOS 17, iPadOS 17, Other Apple Software Update Release Date, Compatible Models: All You Need To Know

Starting September 18, Apple will begin rolling out the iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 updates to iPhone and iPad users.

During its "Wonderlust" event on Tuesday, Apple announced the release date of its suite of new operating systems, including iOS 17, iPadOS 17, macOS Sonoma, watchOS 10, and tvOS 17, which were announced at WWDC 2023 in June. iOS 17 marks a significant milestone for Apple, introducing notable communication enhancements across Phone, FaceTime, and Messages. It's important to note that not all iPhone models will receive this update, as iOS 17 features will only be accessible as a free software upgrade for iPhone Xs and later models.

iOS 17: Release Dates, Compatibility

Starting September 18, Apple will begin rolling out the iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 updates to iPhone and iPad users. The following iPhone models will be compatible with iOS 17: iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, iPhone SE (2nd generation or later).

Similarly, iPadOS 17 will be available as a free software update for the following iPad models: iPad (6th generation and later), iPad mini (5th generation and later), iPad Air (3rd generation and later), 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2nd generation and later), 10.5-inch iPad Pro, and 11-inch iPad Pro (1st generation and later).

iOS 17, iPadOS 17: Top Features

iOS 17 introduces personalised Contact Posters, enabling users to select how a contact appears during incoming calls. These posters will also extend to third-party calling applications. Additionally, users can now access real-time transcription of live voicemail messages, ensuring privacy while eliminating spam calls.

Apple has enhanced communication apps such as FaceTime and Messages in iOS 17. FaceTime now supports message recording and sending for situations when the recipient doesn't answer audio or video calls. Moreover, users can initiate FaceTime calls via Apple TV and seamlessly switch them to their television screens.

The update also brings significant improvements to Airdrop, NameDrop, autocorrect, dictation, privacy settings, AirPlay, Apple Music, and Safari browsing. Apple introduced a new app called Journal, simplifying the process of creating gratitude lists.

iPadOS 17 introduces a redesigned and customisable Lock Screen along with interactive widgets. Reading PDFs and Notes on iPads is made more convenient with new features. Interactive tools similar to iOS 17 are incorporated into Messages, FaceTime, and Safari. The Health app is now available on iPads, allowing users to monitor their health data efficiently.

macOS Sonoma, watchOS 10, tvOS 17: Top Features

macOS Sonoma, Apple's latest software update for Mac computers, introduces the ability to place widgets directly on the desktop and interact with them. The update also enhances video conferencing capabilities and offers faster browsing across multiple windows in Safari. Game Mode is another noteworthy addition, optimising the gaming experience for users. macOS Sonoma will be accessible to all compatible Mac computers starting September 26.

watchOS 10 will be available for Apple Watch Series 4 and later models, paired with iPhone Xs or later, running iOS 17. It brings redesigned apps, enhancing navigation and content access. New widgets can be neatly organised in a Smart Stack and prioritised based on the user's activity. The update also allows users to access the Control Center via a side button and introduces two new watch faces.

Lastly, tvOS 17 enhances the Apple TV experience by enabling FaceTime calls to be displayed on the television screen and facilitating calls directly from the television. The update includes numerous personalised features, such as improved dialogue, Dolby Vision 8.1 support, and third-party VPN support.