Apple is currently working on the upcoming iOS 17.3 update, expected to bring several improvements and a notable security feature called Stolen Device Protection. The journey towards its release has faced some bumps, with beta versions being seeded to developers and public testers.
The initial beta release in mid-December was followed by two more, with the second beta encountering issues that led to some testers experiencing iPhone malfunctions. Apple swiftly responded by re-releasing the third beta after addressing the problems.
Also Read: iOS 17.2 New Features
While iOS 17.3 doesn’t introduce a many of new features, the highlight is the Stolen Device Protection. This security upgrade adds an extra layer of protection in case your iPhone is stolen and the passcode compromised. It restricts unauthorized access to sensitive information tied to your Apple ID.
As for the release date, historical patterns from the past two years suggest a late January launch, aligning with the release dates of iOS 16.3 on January 23, 2023, and iOS 15.3 on January 26, 2022. This timeline implies that the fourth beta might be released around January 15, the release candidate around January 22, and the public build around January 29.
However, the possibility of unforeseen issues causing delays cannot be ruled out. Despite potential setbacks, Apple appears to be aiming for a late January release, providing users with the anticipated security upgrade and any additional improvements made during the beta testing phase. Stay tuned for the official announcement of iOS 17.3, which promises to enhance the iPhone user experience.