Although it is nearly five months before Apple’s iOS 17 launch, we can already gather a few details about the upcoming software update based on Apple’s previous announcements and reported information. Below we’ve rounded up everything we’ve heard about iOS 17. Apple is expected to announce iOS 17 alongside iPadOS 17, macOS 14, watchOS 10, and tvOS 17 at its annual WWDC developer conference in June, so we’ll learn about additional features planned for the coming months.

Alternative app stores

Last month, Mark Gurman Bloomberg It reported that Apple is preparing to allow “alternative app stores” on the iPhone to comply with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act. The changes, originally planned for Europe only, will allow iPhone users to install apps outside of Apple’s App Store. Gürman said that Apple aims to prepare the changes as part of the “iOS 17 update”, meaning that the changes can be presented in a point update such as iOS 17.1 or later versions. The law will take full effect in March 2024.

Next generation CarPlay

At WWDC 2022, Apple previewed the next generation of CarPlay, which will support multiple displays, widgets and integration with vehicle features such as instrument cluster, climate control and FM radio. Apple says the first next-generation CarPlay-enabled vehicles will be announced in late 2023, and a connected iPhone will likely require iOS 17 or later. Apple said committed automakers include Acura, Audi, Ford, Honda, Jaguar, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Porsche, Volvo and others.

Apple headphone support

Many expect Apple to announce its long-awaited AR/VR headset this year, and iOS 17 will likely include support for the device before its launch. Apple may also announce other developer-focused software tools for the headset at WWDC.

Fewer changes expected

According to Gurman, iOS 17 may have “less major changes than originally planned” due to Apple’s focus on the “xrOS” operating system for the AR/VR headset. This could lead to iOS 17 focusing more on bug fixes and stability improvements, but it’s still early so we haven’t heard anything about the full specs yet.