The testing phase for Apple iOS 17.2 Beta 1 and Apple’s other operating systems has been initiated. This update brings long-awaited features to iPhone users, including the “Journal” app, iMessage sticker reactions, and a redesigned Apple TVOS 17.2 Beta 1. On Wednesday, Apple released version 17.1 and various point updates, alongside the beta 1 version of iOS 17.2. This new testing phase not only fulfills Apple’s commitment to iOS 17 but also introduces some pleasant surprises.
One of the standout features of iOS 17.2 is the all-new “Journal” application. It’s a privacy-focused journal app that leverages available developer APIs to help users document their daily lives. This app collects data from your iPhone and applies on-device machine learning to analyze your photos, music, fitness activities, and more. It generates personalized journal suggestions for easy retrospection of your past and the recording of life’s memorable moments. It’s worth mentioning that the “Journal” app is currently only available on iPhone in the Beta 1 version and is likely to remain so in the future.
Apple has also updated the Apple TV app, as per recent rumors. In Apple tvOS 17.2 Beta 1, the TV app introduces a sidebar that allows users to easily find available content based on integrated channels. The side panel displays integrated channels such as Paramount+ and Disney+, as well as other external app channels. This enables users to access their desired content without leaving the app, resulting in a cleaner interface.
Additionally, there have been some minor adjustments to the TV app on iOS. It particularly emphasizes channels in the “Watch Now” section to help users easily discover their favorite content. For beta testers, there’s a new “Collect Playlists” feature available on Apple Music. This feature consolidates a user’s collections into one place, similar to Spotify’s “Liked” playlists.
Apple has introduced collaborative functionality for Apple Music playlists. It enables users to invite other Apple iOS 17.2 Beta 1 users to co-manage playlists and enhance the music-sharing experience. In addition, Apple has added iMessage sticker reactions. It’s important to note that this feature differs from traditional reactions. Users can react to information using stickers, but these stickers are only attached to messages, not integrated into responses as seen on platforms like Slack or Discord.
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