The iOS 17.3 release is coming next week: 3 key features you know about

Stolen Device Protection, collaborative Apple Music playlists, and a Unity Bloom wallpaper, oh my!

A slew of new features will be available in iOS 17.3 next week, which is sure to elicit a range of reactions from users. Among the highlights are the introduction of Stolen Device Protection, the ability to create collaborative Apple Music playlists, and the visually stunning Unity Bloom wallpaper for the Lock Screen, as reported by Mac Rumors, TechCrunch, and TheOrcTech. Get ready for excitement, critique, and hidden gems with this upcoming iOS update.

Is iOS 17.3 coming soon?

We don’t have an exact date, but iOS 17.3 will likely come out on Tuesday, January 23, Forbes reported.

Some iOS 17.3 features you know about?

Glad you asked! We’ve broken down some of the key new features below.

Stolen Device Protection

The introduction of Stolen Device Protection stands out as one of the most exciting updates in iOS 17.3, garnering widespread anticipation. Addressing a concerning issue highlighted by The Wall Street Journal last year, where malicious individuals could observe passcode inputs in public settings and subsequently exploit stolen devices, this new feature aims to provide an extra layer of security.

With Stolen Device Protection enabled, unlocking your phone requires Face ID or Touch ID authentication. This means that even if someone gains access to your passcode, they won’t be able to unlock the device without your face or fingerprint. Additionally, the feature incorporates a one-hour security delay for critical actions, such as changing your Apple ID password, particularly when you are not in a familiar location like your home.

Also Read | iOS 17.3 will include a new anti-theft feature from Apple

To activate or deactivate Stolen Device Protection, navigate to your device settings, select Face ID & Passcode, and then choose the Stolen Device Protection option. This added security measure aims to safeguard your personal information and ensure a more secure and reassuring mobile experience.

Collaborative Apple Music playlists

Apple is rolling out collaborative Apple Music playlists with the latest iOS 17.3 update, though it’s met with less enthusiasm due to its belated arrival compared to Spotify’s similar feature that has been available for months. Originally promised for iOS 17, it was a feature that didn’t materialize until now.

This new functionality allows Apple Music subscribers to invite multiple individuals to a playlist, granting them the ability to add, reorder, and remove songs. A unique touch is the inclusion of emoji reactions next to playlist songs, a feature not present in Spotify, sparking a touch of envy even among Spotify users. To utilize this collaborative feature, users can click on the person-shaped icon within a playlist, copy the link, and invite others to join. For those who prefer control, there’s an option to approve every song added, and the collaboration feature can be toggled on and off at your convenience. Despite the delay, the collaborative Apple Music playlists offer a social and interactive dimension to music sharing on the platform.

Also Read | How to use the iOS 17 contact sharing feature — swap phone numbers in seconds

Unity Bloom wallpaper

Another notable addition in iOS 17.3 is the Unity Bloom wallpaper for iPhones and iPads, along with a corresponding watch face for the Apple Watch. This aesthetically pleasing feature showcases red, green, and yellow flowers that dynamically bloom, a visual representation inspired by the resilience and beauty of the Black community, according to Apple’s statement. The Unity Bloom wallpaper not only brings a touch of artistic beauty to your devices but also carries a meaningful and symbolic message, reflecting Apple’s commitment to inclusivity and appreciation of diverse cultures.