Despite the anticipation that iOS 17 may not introduce any groundbreaking features, the new update is expected to bring some notable changes in anticipation of the forthcoming European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA).
Apple's primary focus over the past year has revolved around the development of its mixed-reality headset; therefore, its existing platforms have not seen much attention. As a result, the tech giant's upcoming iOS 17 release will offer several handy enhancements, although a groundbreaking new feature may not be present, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.
Among the anticipated enhancements are interactive widgets, an overhauled Control Center, increased Dynamic Island functionality, and improved search capabilities. Though none of these updates are groundbreaking, they certainly provide practicality for users.
However, the most impactful changes may be more subtle, stemming from the company's need to comply with the forthcoming DMA regulations. This will force Apple to permit third-party app stores on its devices, which will ultimately involve supporting app "sideloading." Similar to Android, sideloading refers to installing apps from alternative sources, such as through a connected computer, downloading online, or acquiring from third-party app stores.
Though Apple has long resisted sideloading due to security concerns, cybersecurity expert Bruce Schneier argued that these concerns were baseless. In a letter to lawmakers last year, Schneier noted that the perceived risks associated with sideloading are minimal compared to the benefits of opening up the digital marketplace. Encouraging competition, preventing monopolistic practices, and enabling users to exercise their rights to digital self-determination are among the major advantages of allowing third-party app stores and sideloading.
Microsoft, for example, is preparing to launch its own third-party mobile app store for iOS and Android devices once the EU's regulations become effective. Apple's App Store policies have prevented Microsoft from releasing a native app for its Xbox cloud gaming service on iOS, forcing it to rely on web-based streaming. However, the upcoming DMA compliance requirements could alter this landscape significantly.
As for Apple's other platforms, Gurman predicts that watchOS 10 will be a substantial update, providing users with an extensive UI revamp, Siri improvements, fitness recovery features, and a new health dashboard module.
In summary, while the surface-level updates to Apple's existing operating systems may not be as exciting as some previous releases, the behind-the-scenes adjustments are poised to leave a lasting impact on the future of each platform. In light of these changes, developers looking to launch their apps on multiple platforms may want to explore the AppMaster platform's capabilities. As a no-code tool for creating backend, web, and mobile applications, AppMaster allows users to visually create their data models, business logic, and APIs in a streamlined manner to cater to the evolving digital marketplace and meet unique project needs.
