Introduction:

As we approach the year-end, the Apple community is abuzz with anticipation as iOS 17.2 inches closer to a potential public release. On November 15, Apple released the third beta of iOS 17.2 to public beta testers, unveiling an array of exciting features. While the official release date remains uncertain, let’s take a deep dive into the notable additions and enhancements introduced in this latest beta.

Journal App: A Creative Outlet

With the introduction of iOS 17.2 beta 1, Apple unveils the long-awaited Journal app, set to transform your digital diary experience. Initially showcased at Apple’s WWDC event in June alongside iOS 17, the Journal app was notably absent from the September 18 update. However, it is now poised to make its debut in iOS 17.2.

The Journal app harnesses on-device machine learning to provide personalized writing suggestions based on your daily iPhone activities, including photos taken and music listened to. The addition of “Reflections,” a set of suggested topics, enriches the journaling experience. Noteworthy privacy features include the ability to lock the app with Face ID or a passcode after a designated period of closure.

In the latest iOS 17.2 beta 3, the Journal app introduces a journaling schedule feature, adding another layer of user-friendliness to this creative tool.

Contact Key Verification in Messages: Strengthening Digital Security

Making its debut in iOS 17.2 beta 1, Contact Key Verification is a security feature announced by Apple in December 2022. This functionality, particularly beneficial for individuals facing digital threats, enables users to enhance the verification of their communications. Geared towards journalists, human rights activists, and government members, this feature provides an additional layer of security against potential cyberattacks.

React with Live Stickers: Adding Fun to Messaging

iOS 17.2 beta 1 introduces the ability to react to texts in Messages with Live Stickers, building upon the creative addition of Live Stickers from the iOS 17 launch. Live Stickers allow users to craft personalized stickers from their photos, bringing an element of fun to messaging interactions.

New Apple Music Settings: Enhanced User Control

For Apple Music subscribers, iOS 17.2 beta 3 introduces a novel setting allowing the automatic addition of favorited songs to your library. Found in Settings > Music, this feature enhances user control over their music collection.

More Memoji Customization: Edit Your Memoji’s Body

iOS 17.2 beta 1 unveils a ‘Body’ menu in the Memoji editor, enabling users to customize their Memoji’s body features. Although options are currently limited, this addition hints at a more comprehensive character creation menu in future updates.

Photos and Apple Music Integration: Elevating Your Memories

Following the update to iOS 17.2 beta 3, the Photos app requests permission to access your Apple Music library. This integration aims to curate songs for your Memories, delivering a multimedia experience to your cherished moments.

As we await the official release of iOS 17.2, Apple continues to refine and introduce exciting features. A word of caution: when downloading beta versions, especially on primary devices, exercise discretion as bugs and potential impacts on battery life may arise.

Note: The features discussed are based on beta versions, and changes may occur in the official release.