Apple releases iOS 17.4 stable update with Sideloading In EU

March 6, 2024

Compatible iPhones are currently being seeded with iOS 17.4. The Cupertino-based tech behemoth is also updating some devices to iPadOS 17.4. There are a lot of new updates and features in the most recent software version. The European Union will start enforcing the Digital Markets Act (DMA) next week. Unfortunately, only users in the European Union will be able to benefit from these updates.

If your iPhone has a 21E219 build number and is eligible, Apple will install iOS 17.4. The update will weigh in at around 1.63GB.

Regarding updates, we should mention that Apple used the Emoji 15.1 standard and added 118 new emojis to their library. The emoji set includes new mushrooms, phoenixes, limes, shattered chains, and swaying heads. Aside from that, you can alter the skin tone of 18 different people and body emojis using five different settings.

Now you can follow an episode on Apple Podcasts with text that highlights in rhythm with the audio in four languages: English, Spanish, French, and German. Full episodes are also available in text format, and the greatest part is that the accessibility function allows you to adjust the font size, contrast, and more.

iOS 17.4 release notes

In terms of enhancements and fixes, you can look at the iOS 17.4 release notes.

Music recognition lets you add songs you have identified to your Apple Music Playlists and Library, as well as Apple Music Classical

Siri has a new option to announce messages you receive in any supported language
Stolen Device Protection supports the option for increased security in all locations
Battery Health in Settings shows battery cycle count, manufacture date, and first use on iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models
Call Identification displays Apple-verified business name, logo, and department name when available
Business updates in Messages for Business provide trusted information for order status, flight notifications, fraud alerts, or other transactions you opt into
Apple Cash virtual card numbers enable you to pay with Apple Cash at merchants that do not yet accept Apple Pay by typing in your number from Wallet or using Safari AutoFill
Fixes an issue where contact pictures are blank in Find My

Fixes an issue for Dual SIM users where the phone number changes from primary to secondary and is visible to a group they have messaged

Some features may not be available for all regions or on all Apple devices. For information on the security content of Apple software updates, please visit this website: https://support.apple.com/kb/HT201222

Apart from all these changes, Apple addresses the Digital Markets Act regulatory requirements in the EU with support for third-party app marketplaces, alternate payment systems on iOS and iPadOS, third-party browser engine support, and NFC access for banks and other payment providers.

If you reside in Europe, then you will find these additions in the iOS 17.4’s release notes.

Apps in the EU

Residents of the European Union will now have new options to:

Install apps from alternative app marketplaces

Install web browser with alternative browser engines
Manage your default web browser the first time you open Safari
Use alternative payment options for apps in the App Store with the external purchases badge

Some options require developer support

If you want to try new features or facing any of these issues on your iPhone, you can install the new update. You can check for the update by going to Settings > General > Software Update. Make sure to back up your iPhone just for precaution.

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