Apple has now made the third beta versions of iOS 17.3 and iPadOS 17.3 available to registered developers, allowing association with a paid account to access the pre-release builds through device settings, choosing the update option therein, and subsequently the developer beta for installation and testing purposes on a compatible device.

iOS 17.3: Enhanced Security & Collaborative Playlists

iOS 17.3 introduces a crucial Stolen Device Protection feature, enhancing privacy by requiring Face ID or Touch ID authentication for sensitive tasks. This includes accessing iCloud Keychain passwords, disabling Lost Mode, making purchases via Safari using saved payment details, and more.

Additionally, some actions, like modifying an Apple ID passcode or disabling Find My iPhone, require verification and have a one-hour access delay.

The update brings collaborative Apple Music playlists, allowing subscribers to create and share playlists with others easily. These playlists are user-friendly, shareable via links, and support emoji reactions.

Notably, Apple withdrew the second betas of iOS 17.3 and iPadOS 17.3 due to a boot loop issue. While the second betas were never redistributed, it can be inferred from this that the fundamental problem underlying has presumably been handled by the third betas' development cycle.

While most analysts anticipate that Apple will debut their newest mobile operating system improvements near the conclusion of the present month, few details have emerged regarding their plans.

Recently, Apple hit a snag with its iOS 17.3 beta two updates as users reported iPhones getting stuck in a boot loop. The issue seemed linked to the Back Tap feature on iPhone 12 through iPhone 15 models. This feature allows users to perform actions by tapping the phone's back panel.

Turning on or off Back Tap and customizing actions involve navigating to Settings > Accessibility > Touch and selecting Back Tap. Disabling Back Tap allowed users to update to iOS 17.3 beta two smoothly.

For affected users encountering the boot loop, rolling back to prior versions like iOS 17.3 beta one or iOS 17.2.1 resolved the issue, albeit requiring a data and app backup for restoration.

It's a reminder that beta software, prone to instability, might disrupt crucial daily features. Apple is likely working on a fix to rescue iPhones trapped in this boot loop predicament caused by the beta update.

Other Updates for Apple Products

Apple has confirmed the launch details for the Vision Pro headset, setting its release date for February 2 at Apple Stores across the US and online.

Pre-orders will commence on January 19 at 5 a.m. PT. Priced at $3,499 for the 256GB variant. It introduces ZEISS Optical Inserts for readers at $99 and prescription lenses at $149. This spatial computing headset features an innovative visionOS platform, offering an Optic ID authentication system and two micro-OLED screens.

Apple emphasizes customization with different bands and light seals for a personalized fit. Although initially available only in the US, Apple plans to expand its availability to more countries later in the year. The headset will include various accessories and promise a groundbreaking user experience.