Apple’s iOS 17.1, iPadOS 17.1, macOS Sonoma 14.1, tvOS 17.1, watchOS 10.1, and HomePod Software 17.1 updates are expected to be released to the public tomorrow after several weeks of beta testing. We expect the software to go live at 10:00 AM PT, which is when Apple typically releases updates.
Last week, Apple released candidates (RCs) for all upcoming software updates. Apple usually tests RCs for about a week to ensure there are no bugs that break the device, and this time, we have also been informed of a specific launch date due to the update in France.
iOS 17.1 in France includes a radiation reduction feature for iPhone 12 models when they are stationary on a table or other surface, and French regulatory group ANFR confirmed two weeks ago that the iOS 17.1 update is expected “by October 24.”
iOS 17.1 won’t bring us the Journal app, but it has some useful new features. It includes the option to continue large AirDrop transfers online once they’ve started, so if you’re sending files to someone, you can leave while the transfer is in progress.
It includes new options to favorite Apple Music songs, there are new options to leave the screen on in standby mode, and Screen Time should work better across devices. There are also several bug fixes, so if you’re having persistent issues searching the Messages or Photos app on the new iPhone 15 models, you’ll need to download the update right away.
If you have an Apple Watch, watchOS 10.1 is actually the one that will bring some of the best features. The update includes NameDrop support to quickly share contact information with another person, and adds the Double Tap feature on the latest models. Double Tap lets you tap your index finger and thumb together to do things like answer phone calls and bring up the Smart Stack.
macOS Sonoma 14.1 contains some bug fixes, and if you have an original HomePod or HomePod mini, you’ll be happy to hear that HomePod 17.1 adds the Enhance Dialogue feature to those devices. When using the HomePod as a speaker for Apple TV, Enhance Dialogue reduces background noise and music when there’s talking so you can better hear what’s being said.
We’ve got a full rundown of all the new features coming in iOS 17.1 in our iOS 17.1 Beta Features Guide. Apple is already working on iOS 17.2, so we may see new beta features later this week after iOS 17.1 and its sister updates are released.
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