Several highly anticipated iOS 17 and iOS 18 improvements that will trickle out gradually throughout the year are set to launch in the coming of 2024, and outlined below are the forthcoming iOS updates projected for this year.

These include innovative offerings such as enhanced Stolen Device Protection, collaborative Apple Music playlist creation, AirPlay functionality extended to hotel room TVs, anticipated app sideloading availability within the EU, an evolved version of CarPlay, satellite-enabled roadside assistance beyond U.S. borders, integration of RCS support within the Messages app, and the integration of generative AI to augment Siri's capabilities.

These features will introduce substantial improvements and new functionalities to the iOS ecosystem over the year.

Stolen Device Protection

Apple is combating iPhone thefts with the Stolen Device Protection feature in iOS 17. It adds an extra security layer by mandating Face ID or Touch ID authentication for critical actions, making it challenging for thieves to access or misuse stolen devices. This feature restricts access to iCloud Keychain passwords and Apple Card functions and erases device content without biometric authentication.

Moreover, it introduces a one-hour delay for sensitive actions like changing Apple ID passwords, providing added security. Users can enable this opt-in feature in Face ID & Passcode settings. Apple will release more details upon the broader launch of iOS 17.3.

Apple Music Collaborative Playlist, New Airplay Feature, and App Sideloading

Apple Music has a new thing called Collaborative Playlists. This lets more than one person edit shared music lists by adding, moving around, or removing songs. They can reply using fun little pictures that move.

At first, it was supposed to be released with iOS 17.2 but then got pushed back until it finally came out in 2024, according to Apple's confirmation. At the same time, iPhone users were supposed to be able to stream content on their hotel TVs without any wires by scanning a QR code.

However, this feature was delayed from iOS 17.2 till an unclear update in 2024. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says introducing app sideloading to the European Union might happen soon. This will let people put apps on their devices without using Apple's App Store and obey EU rules expected in early 2024.

iOS 18 Revolutionizing Changes

iOS 18 introduces groundbreaking changes: Siri gets a boost with generative AI, expanding its abilities in handling questions and auto-completing sentences. Apple's integration of large language models promises a more intelligent virtual assistant, revolutionizing interactions.

Simultaneously, RCS support in the Messages app will bridge the messaging gap, offering richer media, cross-platform compatibility between iPhones and Androids, and improved group chats, as expected in iOS 18.

Moreover, the next-gen CarPlay, debuting in 2024 with luxury car brands like Aston Martin and Porsche, hints at advanced in-car entertainment. This enhanced version pledges deeper integration, multiple displays, a dedicated FM radio app, and customizable interfaces tailored to car models, although its availability for other luxury brands remains uncertain.

What is the First New Apple Device to be released in 2024?

Apple's early 2024 launch focuses on the Apple Vision Pro, the spatial computing headset revealed in June.

Despite being a new product category, links to iPhones are expected. iPhone 15 Pro models with iOS 17.2 can capture spatial video for enhanced viewing on the Vision Pro, offering immersive experiences with added depth.

Speculation suggests potential iPhone 16 models featuring redesigned camera lenses for spatial video.

VisionOS adaptations of popular iPhone apps and the assurance of regular app functionality on the Vision Pro are anticipated, indicating a possible merging of the iPhone ecosystem with Apple's innovative headset.