3 new iOS 17 features dropped this week that you likely missed

2023-09-15 05:57

iOS 17, poised for an official release date of Sept. 18, is electrifying iPhone users

iOS 17, poised for an official release date of Sept. 18, is electrifying iPhone users – and I don’t blame 'em. I mean, they’re getting a new Check In feature that automatically updates your worried acquaintances, thus preventing any "Text me when you get home" forgetfulness fiascos, a NameDrop function that lets users swap contact information more seamlessly, and the upcoming Journal app is the talk of the town.

However, over the past couple of days, iOS 17 introduced a handful of brand spankin’ new features – cool perks that may have slipped under your radar. If you, like me, are obsessed with being in the know on how your iOS experience will be enriched, check out three additional iOS 17 goodies announced this week.

1. iOS 17 just added a bunch of new ringtones

If you’re bored to tears with Apple’s current offerings of ringtones and text tones, you’ll be elated to know that the iOS 17 dropped more than 20 new audio clips that you can use for your ringer, alarms, texts, and more.

Compared to the old library, the new portfolio features ringtones that are lengthier and feature a more au courant sound. If you prefer the previous ringtones, you can still access them under the “Classic” section.

2. The new bokeh effect feature was showcased at the iPhone 15 event

At the iPhone 15 "Wanderlust" event, Apple showed off a new photo feature that lets you finagle with the focus and depth of subjects. In other words, you can add a bokeh effect to anyone in your photo. We thought this was an iPhone 15-exclusive feature, but as it turns out, it’s rolling out to previous-gen iPhones, too, via iOS 17.

Focus and depth control showcased at iPhone 15 event Credit: Apple

However, only iPhone 13, iPhone 14, and iPhone 15 users will have the opportunity to use this feature. (Sorry to owners of iPhone 12 models and older.)

3. The Home app got an update

Environmentally conscious users will appreciate the fact that iOS 17 added a new tool – it’s called "Grid Forecast" – to the Home app that lets users know when their power grid has cleaner energy available. This way, you can decide when to best use your electricity.

For example, if you need to charge your Tesla, it may be best to keep an eye on the Grid Forecast tool so you can use cleaner energy during periods of high power consumption. This feature, as well as the aforementioned other perks, is currently available via the latest version of the iOS 17 public beta.