Apple recently unveiled iPadOS 17, the latest version of its tablet operating system, at the WWDC 2023 conference. Packed with impressive updates, iPadOS 17 is set to be released in the fall, introducing a range of exciting features for iPad users.
Update: iPadOS 17 will be released on Monday, September 18, according to Apple.
Compatibility and installation
To ensure a smooth installation process, it’s important to check if your iPad is compatible with iPadOS 17. While support for older models has been dropped, newer iPads such as the 6th generation iPad, 5th generation iPad Mini, 3rd generation iPad Air, 2nd generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro, 10.5-inch iPad Pro, and 3rd generation iPad Air will be able to enjoy the benefits of the new operating system.
If you have a compatible device, you can download and install the update via the Settings > General > Software Update menu. Before downloading and installing iPadOS 17, we highly recommend backing up your iPad.
iPadOS 17 top new features
iPadOS 17 brings a range of compelling features designed to enhance customization, productivity, and user experience. Let’s explore some of the standout additions:
- Personalized Lock Screens: Taking inspiration from iOS 16, iPadOS 17 introduces customizable lock screens. You can now select Live Photo wallpapers, enabling the creation of dynamic lock screen videos that respond to touch. Additionally, clock style, color, and font thickness can be adjusted, and favorite widgets can be added to the lock screen, providing instant access to glanceable information.
- Improved Widgets: Widgets become even more interactive in iPadOS 17. You can now check off completed tasks directly within widgets, update them in real-time, and control smart home devices. These interactive widgets can be placed not only on the home screen but also on the lock screen, making it easier than ever to stay organized and connected.
- Enhanced PDF Editing: iPadOS 17 introduces notable improvements to PDF management. The system reads and analyzes PDF documents, identifies text boxes for easy data entry, and allows you to import information from your contacts. In addition, the Notes app seamlessly integrates PDFs, providing a full-screen width view for annotation and sketching with the Apple Pencil. Real-time collaboration on notes is now possible, facilitating productive teamwork.
- Fun and Functional Messages: Apple enriches the Messages app with Live Stickers, allowing you to create your own stickers using images from your photos. Transcribing audio messages is another handy addition, ensuring messages can be read when listening is not possible. Other convenient features include quick-replying within a conversation by swiping on a message, jumping to the last unread message with a tap, and continuous sharing of live location.
- Enhanced Safari Security: Safari receives new features to enhance privacy and separation of personal and work-related browsing activities. Multiple profiles can be created, keeping cookies, history, and tag groups separate for different contexts. Private Browsing now offers the option to lock the Safari window with Face ID or Touch ID, ensuring that no one can access your browsing session when you’re away.
- Health App Access: With iPadOS 17, the Health app expands its reach to the iPad, allowing you to access and review their health-related data on the larger screen. Developers can leverage the HealthKit API for iPad, enabling the creation of comprehensive health apps tailored to the iPad experience.
Other new features
- Stage Manager provides more flexibility in arranging and resizing windows, optimizing workspace efficiency.
- Stage Manager provides more flexibility in arranging and resizing windows, optimizing workspace efficiency.
- Siri can now be activated simply by saying “Siri” without the need for “Hey, Siri.”
iPadOS 17 brings incremental upgrades to the iPad
iPadOS 17 promises incremental upgrades and impactful additions that enhance user customization, productivity, and overall iPad experience. Whether it’s the improved lock screens, interactive widgets, enhanced PDF editing, or privacy features in Safari, iPadOS 17 brings a range of compelling updates worth exploring. Get ready to elevate your iPad experience with iPadOS 17 when it arrives in the fall of 2023.
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