Apple has recently released public beta versions of iOS 17, iPadOS 17, and macOS Sonoma, introducing several new features and improvements, reported first by TechCrunch.
Key Additions
One of the key additions is the support for bilingual queries to Siri, initially available for select Indic languages. This means users can now ask Siri questions by combining English with languages such as Hindi, Telegu, Punjabi, Kannada, or Marathi.
While Apple is relatively late to introduce this feature compared to competitors like Google Assistant and Amazon, it is especially significant for users in India who often use multiple languages in their daily conversations.
Another notable feature introduced in iOS 17 is the ability to take full-page screenshots, a capability that has been available on Android devices for some time through "Scrolling screenshots." Users can save these screenshots as images or PDF files.
Furthermore, users with dual-SIM capability will enjoy enhanced support, which encompasses the sorting of messages specific to each SIM, the ability to assign separate ringtones for individual SIM cards, and the option to select a preferred SIM when returning a call from an unknown number.
Apple has also made several other enhancements specifically for Indian users. These include transliteration support for Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam on iOS, the ability to sign into Apple ID using a phone number instead of an email ID, a built-in Punjabi dictionary, and the option to see up to 2,000 calls in the call history section, including Facetime and WhatsApp calls.
Additionally, iPad users can now filter messages by known and unknown senders. Apple plans to release stable versions of iOS 17, iPadOS 17, and macOS Sonoma later this fall. Users interested in participating in the public beta program can easily sign up using their Apple ID.
Downloading the Beta Version
It is important to check the eligibility of the device before downloading the beta version, and it is recommended not to use the main device for this experience due to potential glitches.
The upcoming upgrades, including iOS 17 for eligible iPhone devices and macOS 14 for Macs, promise significant changes and improvements to the user experience.
iOS 17 will only be available for iPhone models from the iPhone XS and above, phasing out older models like the iPhone 8 and iPhone X.
The macOS 14 update aims to enhance gaming experiences on Apple computers, providing better support and accessibility.
Apple's recent revelations at the WWDC 2023 event set the stage for a future of upgraded operating systems with new features and experiences for both new and existing devices. With the expansion of the Apple Beta Program to the public, anyone with an Apple ID can now join and explore the upcoming software updates.
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