There’s one big reason you should download it
iOS 17.3 is now accessible for download on all compatible iPhones, marking the official release after successfully concluding its beta phase and attaining stability.
A prominent feature in iOS 17.3 is the introduction of Stolen Device Protection, a security setting designed to thwart potential thieves from locking users out using only a PIN. Unless within a specified familiar location, users are required to employ Touch ID or Face ID to modify critical settings, with some features subject to a one-hour delay to prevent opportunistic attacks.
For Apple Music subscribers, iOS 17.3 enables access to Apple Music Collaborative Playlists. This feature allows users to curate playlists collaboratively with friends, fostering a collective music experience where participants can leave emoji reactions for each song.
Among the minor updates, this version of iOS introduces support for AirPlay with hotel room entertainment systems, enhances crash detection on iPhone 14 and iPhone 15, and includes a new Unity Bloom wallpaper as part of Apple’s Black Unity series of backgrounds.
Similar to the original release of iOS 17, iOS 17.3 is compatible with iPhone XS, iPhone XR, or newer models. Users can update manually through the Settings app, navigating to General and then Software Update. Alternatively, the device may automatically download and install the update during periods of inactivity, such as overnight.
With the rollout of iOS 17.3, anticipation grows for an impending beta release of iOS 17.4. While no major features are anticipated at this stage in iOS 17’s life cycle, there remains room for surprises akin to the impactful Stolen Device Protection. Caution is expressed regarding potential issues, recalling the incident with iOS 17.3 beta 2, which prompted Apple to swiftly withdraw the download due to a boot looping problem, leading to the release of beta 3.
Looking ahead, the focus shifts to the next significant update, iOS 18, expected to be unveiled at WWDC in June, assuming Apple adheres to its customary release schedule.