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With WWDC 2023 just around the corner, there’s only a few weeks left before we hear about some of the new features coming to iPhones. Because – historically at least – the conference gives us our first glimpse of the next-gen software that Apple is about to release – in this case, iOS 17.
There have been many rumors about features and changes in the next version that should be officially available with the iPhone 15. These include an update to Control Center and a change in how Apple Maps works.
I’m excited to see what’s next. iOS updates aren’t just beneficial for new users — Apple keeps older devices updated for a very long time, so older phones can reap the benefits too.
Here are three things I’m really excited about in the iOS 17 update.
1. A new journaling app
Rumors have recently surfaced that Apple is working on a journaling app that will be included in the next update. According to reports, the app will combine multimedia user input with data on location and proximity to other devices, as well as training data from Apple Health.
This allows the app to analyze how much time you spend at home, how often you interact with others, and more to assess things that may be affecting your mental well-being. That sounds pretty intrusive, although Apple has reportedly taken precautions to ensure personal data isn’t compromised.
I love it. I’ve never gotten into the world of journaling, but I can imagine it’s a pretty liberating experience. It’s a big plus that it’s always ready to go on your phone and it should be easier than ever to get started.
2. Apple Wallet update
Renderings of an update to the Apple Wallet app were also leaked. This would result in bank cards being housed separately from tickets and other passes, which can clutter the app.
I’m a big fan of it. It’s really useful to have concert tickets, train tickets, gift cards and more in the wallet app, but it can quickly become a mess. Separating these from the bank cards you use more often makes things smoother and you don’t have to scroll through an endless stream of nonsense when you’re standing at the self-checkout.
3. Customization
Linked to some of the major UI upgrades this year is the idea of customization. This is something the iPhone has notably lacked in the past, while competing Android phones have a comparatively wide range of options.
Of course, we saw a glimpse of it last year. In iOS 16, users had the option to customize the font of the time and widgets on their home screen.
Whether we’ll see more this time is unclear, but I’ll keep my fingers crossed. Even things like the ability to choose which items appear as quick access buttons in Control Center would be a good place to start.
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