The first public release of iOS in 2024 is iOS 17.3. Apple releases iOS 17.3 to the public after testing a few beta builds in last few weeks. iOS 17.3 update is available to iOS 17 eligible iPhones that means iPhone Xr and newer models. The third iteration in the iOS 17 series introduces a few new features and bug fixes.
The Release Candidate build of iOS 17.3 was released to registered developers and beta testers last week. It’s important to note that the iOS 17.3 Release Candidate and the iOS 17.3 Public Build are same. Among beta build users, the Release Candidate build is considered stable. Sometimes there are issues with RC builds too, but then Apple releases another version of the RC.
Today along with iOS 17.3, Apple also released iPadOS 17.3, watchOS 10.3, tvOS 17.3, macOS Sonoma 14.3, iOS 16.7.5, iPadOS 16.7.5, iOS 15.8.1, iPadOS 15.8.1, macOS Ventura 13.6.4, and macOS Monterey 12.7.3. Both iOS 17.3 and iPadOS 17.3 come with build number 21D50. It’s the same build number as the release candidate build released last week.
iOS 17.3 Features
The iOS 17.3 update brings features like new utility wallpaper in lock screen, collaborate feature on Music, Emoji reaction to tracks in Music app, and more. You can check out the full changelog below.
Stolen Device Protection
- Stolen Device Protection increases security of iPhone and Apple ID by requiring Face ID or Touch ID with no passcode fallback to perform certain actions
- Security Delay requires Face ID or Touch ID, an hour wait, and then an additional successful biometric authentication before sensitive operations like changing device passcode or Apple ID password can be performed
Lock Screen
- New Unity wallpaper honors Black history and culture in celebration of Black History Month
Music
- Collaborate on playlists allows you to invite friends to join your playlist and everyone can add, reorder, and remove songs
- Emoji reactions can be added to any track in a collaborative playlist
This update also includes the following improvements:
- AirPlay hotel support lets you stream content directly to the TV in your room in select hotels
- AppleCare & Warranty in Settings shows your coverage for all devices signed in with your Apple ID
- Crash detection optimizations (all iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 models)
The iOS 17.3 is available to everyone with eligible iPhone. If you have opted for beta in Settings or installed Release Candidate build, then you will not receive the update. If you are on a public build of iOS 17 you will find the update in Settings > General > Software Update.
Always make sure to take backup of your data and charge your iPhone to at least 50%.
Also Check: