Apple rolled out the initial beta version of iOS 17.3 earlier this week, offering a glimpse of two new features included in the forthcoming software update. Similar to the release patterns of iOS 16.3 and iOS 15.3, iOS 17.3 is anticipated to be launched in January, although February remains a possibility.
The update will be compatible with iPhone XS and newer models, though some iOS 17 features necessitate even more recent iPhone models. Here are additional insights into the new features introduced in iOS 17.3 thus far.
More About Apple iOS 17.3
Stolen Device Protection
One significant addition is the Stolen Device Protection feature, designed to enhance user security in the unfortunate event of an iPhone theft and the potential compromise of the device’s passcode. Earlier this year, reports surfaced about thieves spying on victims to obtain iPhone passcodes, particularly in public places like bars. The subsequent actions allowed the thieves to reset Apple ID passwords, disable Find My, access passwords stored in iCloud Keychain, and more, effectively compromising the user’s entire digital life.
With Stolen Device Protection activated, Face ID or Touch ID authentication becomes mandatory for various actions, including viewing stored passwords or passkeys in iCloud Keychain, applying for a new Apple Card, disabling Lost Mode, erasing content and settings, using saved payment methods in Safari, and more. Notably, there is no passcode fallback if biometric authentication is not feasible. For certain sensitive actions, such as changing the Apple ID password, the feature introduces a security delay in addition to biometric authentication.
In these instances, the user must authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID, wait an hour, and then authenticate again. However, Apple clarified that there is no delay when the iPhone is in familiar locations, like at home or work. On compatible iPhones, users can opt into this feature in the Settings app under Face ID & Passcode → Stolen Device Protection.
Apple Music Collaborative Playlists
Another addition is the Collaborative Playlists feature for Apple Music subscribers, enabling multiple individuals to contribute by adding, rearranging, and removing songs in a shared playlist. Originally expected to debut with iOS 17.2, this feature was removed during the final beta testing phase but has now been reinstated in iOS 17.3. Apple’s official confirmation indicates that this feature will make a comeback in 2024.
