Apple just finished rolling out updates for iPhones, Macs, Watches, TVs, their new Vision Pro headset, and even the smart speaker! These updates bring some cool new stuff and fixes to make everything run smoother. Just recently, we discussed some of the beta versions that were in the pipeline, and now, those updates have matured into full releases. This week marks a significant one for Apple, as it rolls out updates not just for one or two, but across its entire range of devices. Each update brings a mix of new features, improvements, and fixes, aiming to refine the user experience and bolster device performance. Let’s look together into what’s new in these updates.
Table of Contents
iOS 17.4
A big spring cleaning for iPhones came in the form of an iOS 17.4 update – it brings a bunch of improvements and new stuff to your iPhone.This update is packed with changes, especially because of new rules in Europe that Apple has to follow. But even if you’re not in Europe, there’s plenty here for you too.
- New EU-Required Features. Because of the new rules, Apple had to add some features that give you more choice and control over your apps and how you use your iPhone.
- Better Tools for Developers. If you use any apps that need subscriptions, this update makes those subscriptions more reliable and easier for developers to manage. That means less glitchy apps for you.
- Bug Fixes. Apple squashed some bugs that were messing with app purchases and ads. So, if you were having trouble buying something in an app or getting weird ad behavior, this update should help.
This update is a great tune-up for your iPhone so it can keep running fast and smooth.
MacOS Sonoma 14.4
The macOS Sonoma 14.4 update is here to spruce things up with some new features and to make sure everything keeps running smoothly. This update is a little gift to your Mac, with some fun additions and necessary tweaks.
- New Emojis. Who doesn’t love new emojis? This update adds a bunch of them to your emoji keyboard. Now you have more ways to express yourself when chatting or emailing, from mushrooms to phoenixes.
- Podcasts and Business Messages Get a Boost. If you listen to podcasts or use Messages for business stuff, things just got better. You can now search podcast texts, play from a specific point, and get business updates right in your Messages app.
- Bug Fixes and Improvements. No update is complete without fixes. This one squashes some bugs and tweaks various features to keep your Mac running like a well-oiled machine.
Overall, macOS Sonoma 14.4 is adding a little fun with new emojis and improving how you use it for work. Plus, it’s always good to get those bug fixes for a smoother experience on your Mac
WatchOS 10.4
The watchOS 10.4 update is packed with tweaks and new stuff to make your watch even cooler and more useful on your wrist. Here’s some of them:
- New Notification Tricks. Ever miss a notification because it was too small? Now, you can double-tap to make them bigger and easier to read. Handy, right?
- Apple Pay Gets Safer. If you use Apple Pay on your watch, it’s got an extra layer of security. You’ll need a passcode for some payments, making sure it’s really you spending your cash.
- Fixes for Touches and Contacts. Some folks had issues with their watch thinking it was touched when it wasn’t, or their friends’ info not showing up right. Those should be all smoothed out now.
In short, watchOS 10.4 makes your Apple Watch easier to use, more secure for payments, and less glitchy. It’s a little thank-you note to your wrist for all the hard work it does.
VisionOS 1.1
The visionOS 1.1 update comes as a major level-up for your Apple Vision Pro making it more versatile and user-friendly. Here’s what’s new:
- Work Smarter. Now, your headset can handle work emails, contacts, and calendars just like your iPhone and Mac. It’s sure to make work easier and more integrated into your virtual space.
- Persona Gets Better. The Persona feature, which lets you have a digital version of yourself for video calls, got a nice polish. This aims to make meetings feel more personal and engaging.
- More Control Over Apps. Got apps you never use? Now, you can kick them off your Home View, allowing for a more customized and clutter-free interface.
VisionOS 1.1 transforms your Vision Pro into an even more versatile tool, especially for work. It’s about blending your digital and physical worlds in ways that just make sense.
Honorable Mentions
Two small updates worth noting are for tvOS and HomePod.
Compared to other operating system updates, tvOS updates are often small, but be sure – 17.4 includes performance improvements and stability improvements.
The HomePod Software 17.4 introduces a neat feature where Siri can learn your preferred music service, removing the need to specify which app to use each time you ask Siri to play music. This makes using third-party audio services more seamless on your HomePod.
Wrapping up
Here it is, all the cool new stuff Apple’s added to its gadgets, making sure they work better and have fun new features. From your phone to your computer, watch, and even your smart speaker, there’s something new for everything. Enjoy exploring new features and see you all next week!
