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Apple has released iOS 17.5 for the general public to download: iPhone users can download the latest version of the operating system via the integrated software update (“Settings > General > Software Update”). The update includes two fundamental innovations: Within the EU, iOS 17.5 supports the download of individual apps directly from the provider’s website for the first time. Apple had to integrate this function, called “Web Distribution”, under pressure from the EU; since iOS 17.4, app marketplaces can already be installed from the web.
Sideloading and advanced anti-stalking protection
There are currently no such sideloading apps available – and they will probably be a long time coming: only developers who already offer an app that is extremely popular in the EU in the App Store and who also enjoy a “good reputation” with the company are allowed to add their apps Sell Apple’s specifications directly in this way. So far there is only one alternative app store, but more are likely to follow soon. In the future, iPadOS will also fall under the rules of the Digital Markets Act in the EU, so Apple will have to support freer app distribution on the iPad in the future.
The second important expansion is the anti-stalking function, which is now intended to warn for the first time about unknown Bluetooth trackers from other networks – and no longer just about foreign AirTags and building-like hardware that is compatible with Apple’s “Find My?” network. Google has now launched its competing tracking network for Android, so the demand – and probably also the misuse – of the small trackers is likely to increase significantly again.
News widget disappeared
The update also brings a number of new features to Apple’s news app, which is not yet available in Germany, including an offline mode for the Today view and the crossword puzzle corner is supplemented by a new word game. The whereabouts of the news widget, which recently disappeared from iPhones in this country, remains unclear.
iOS 17.5 should also close security gaps; Apple usually provides details later in the evening. At the same time, the manufacturer also released iPadOS 17.5 and watchOS 10.5, the updates also include a new Pride wallpaper and watch face.
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