Apple announced the release of iOS 17.5 and, shortly after, iOS 17.5.1 with bug fixes. Although these upgrades are considered minor, they offer significant new features and security updates, simultaneously correcting issues that surfaced with the previous version.
New Features in iOS 17.5
A major new feature is the “detection notification” function, which alerts users if a location detection device, such as Apple’s AirTags or Android Trackers, is tracking their movement. This allows users to take measures for their privacy and security.
The upgrade also includes the new wallpaper “Rays of Pride” for the lock screen, honoring the LGBTQ+ community, as well as other functional updates, bug fixes and security updates for the iPhone.
Updates in iOS 17.5.1
A week after the release of iOS 17.5, Apple released iOS 17.5.1 and iPadOS 17.5.1. These minor updates come to fix problems reported by users after installing the previous version.
Specifically, the updates include a fix for a problem that could cause the reappearance of images in the photo library even after their deletion. There have been several complaints from iPhone and iPad users who saw their old, deleted photos reappear, causing concern.
Apple’s information suggests that this was a database corruption problem and that iOS 17.5.1 will fix the issue.
Upgradable Devices:
- iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max
- 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 and later)
Along with iOS 17.5, Apple has released updates for iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS and HomePod OS, offering overall improvements to its device ecosystem.
The release of iOS 17.5 and iOS 17.5.1 offers significant improvements and problem fixes for iPhone and iPad users. Users can download the updates over-the-air, by going to Settings > General > Software Update.