All the New Features in iOS 17.5 and iPadOS 17.5: What You Need to Know

Apple has released the first beta versions of iOS 17.5 and iPadOS 17.5, revealing new features and updates. Let's take a look at the main changes and improvements included in these releases.

App Distribution via the Web

Apple is rolling out "Web Distribution" for iPhone users in the European Union, allowing them to download iOS apps directly from developers' websites. To participate, developers must have been members of the Apple Developer Programme for at least two years and have apps with more than one million installations in the EU in the previous year.

Adaptive Colour for the Widget in Apple Podcast

In the latest iOS 17.5 beta, the background colour of the Apple Podcast widget adapts to match the cover artwork of the podcast you are listening to, creating a more cohesive user experience.

Mobile Device Management (MDM)

Mobile device management (MDM) solutions now allow beta versions of iOS to be enforced during automated device enrolment, improving the management of corporate devices.

Upcoming Features for iPad

Recent code references in the iPadOS 17.5 beta suggest the addition of a Battery Health menu for iPad, similar to the one available on iPhone for years. This is expected to give users information about their battery's remaining capacity and cycle count.

New Apple Pencil

A new fourth-generation Apple Pencil may be coming soon, according to information from the latest beta, possibly alongside updated iPad Pro and iPad Air models.

Enhanced Security for Bluetooth Trackers

Apple is adding security updates, expanding alerts that detect third-party Bluetooth item trackers moving with users, improving user protection.

Blocking Participants in Group FaceTime Calls

A new feature is being added to block all participants in group FaceTime calls, giving users greater control over call management.

The official release of iOS 17.5 and iPadOS 17.5 is expected in May, with numerous improvements that will enhance the user experience and introduce new features.