Apple Released iOS 17.4 Beta 2 with these new features

Introduction

Apple has released the third iOS 17.4 beta for all supported iPhones just a week after the release of iOS 17.4 beta 2. This software update is currently available to developers and soon to public beta testers. A highly anticipated feature in iOS 17.4 is the introduction of App sideloading and additional App Stores coming for EU citizens. Apple has officially unveiled these changes and it’s now up to developers to bring their own applications outside the App Store in the European Union. Apple is also introducing a set of 118 new Emoji’s based on Unicode 15.1, changes to Stolen Device Protection, new Clock Widgets and more. A notable addition is the introduction of visionOS 1.1 Beta 2, which is the second beta version of visionOS after the public release of Apple’s spatial computer on February 2nd.

The rollout doesn't stop at iOS and visionOS – Apple has also seeded the third beta versions of iPadOS 17.4 and tvOS 17.4.

Build Number for Every New Software Version

• iOS 17.4 beta 3 build number: 21E5200d

• iPadOS 17.4 beta 3 build number: 21E5200d

• macOS Sonoma 14.4 beta 3 build number: 23E5196e

• tvOS 17.4 beta 3 build number: 21L5212d

• visionOS 1.1 beta 2 build number: 21O5188c

• watchOS 10.4 beta 3 build number: 21T5202e

New Features

These are the most important updates arriving with iOS 17.4. Some of these are only available in the European Union countries while others are universal. For more details on everything new check our comprehensive iOS 17.4 guide.

• Alternative App Stores & App Sideloading (EU only)

• Alternative Payment Options & NFC Access (EU only)

• New Default Browser Selector (EU only)

• 118 New Emoji Versions

• Podcasts: New Live Transcripts

• Messaging with Siri updates

• Stolen Device Protection Optimizations

• Stopwatch live activities (not available on beta 2 - could return on beta 3)

• Shortcuts: updated ‘Add to Home Screen’ UI

• New Home Screen Clock Widgets