The next iPhone update is expected to be unveiled in early May, and the newly launched second beta of the software shows us the biggest change is almost ready. Here are details of this change, and when to expect the software’s general release.
This change is a result of the Digital Markets Act in the European Union, others apply worldwide. The DMA came into force last month, but there are some aspects which were announced but not executed. They will be in iOS 17.5, it seems.
Downloading Apps Is Going To Change Radically
This update will bring direct downloading of apps from outside the App Store—and while this is currently for EU users only, you can bet governments around the world are watching like hawks to see if they should impose similar changes on Apple.
Web distribution, as it’s called, will come in iOS 17.5 and it means that developers can offer their apps directly from a website instead of just through the App Store.
Apple says on its developer website: “Web Distribution now available in iOS 17.5 beta 2 and App Store Connect.” It goes on to explain what’s available to developers saying, “Web Distribution lets authorized developers distribute their iOS apps to users in the European Union (EU) directly from a website owned by the developer. Apple will provide developers access to APIs that facilitate the distribution of their apps from the web, integrate with system functionality, and back up and restore users’ apps, once they meet certain requirements designed to help protect users and platform integrity.”
What Else Is Coming?
There’s already been news of improvements coming to AirTag—full details here. There are design changes for the Podcasts widget and other stuff, which you can read about here.
When Will iOS 17.5 Go On General Release?
It looks like the next software is still on track to match my prediction from the beginning of April. It’s thought that the next Apple iPad Pro and possibly iPad Air will go on sale in early May, and it looks like the new software could be timed alongside. I’m still holding to my suggestion that the first week of May is most likely for iOS 17.5, though the second week is also an option.
Which gives us Tuesday, May 7, or Wednesday, May 8 as favorite, but Monday, May 13 or Tuesday, May 14 also possible. Stay tuned.
