The next iPhone update is expected to roll out in early May, and the new second beta version of the software shows us that the biggest change is almost ready. Here are the details of this change and when to expect the general release of the software.
Apple iOS 17.5, coming soon.
This change is a result of the Digital Markets Act in the European Union, while others apply globally. The DMA came into effect last month, but there are some aspects that were announced but not implemented. It will be in iOS 17.5, it seems.
Downloading apps is about to change radically
This update will bring apps directly from the App Store to download—and while it’s only for EU users right now, you can bet governments around the world are watching like hawks to see if they should force similar changes on Apple .
Web distribution, as it’s called, will be released in iOS 17.5 and means that developers can offer their apps directly from a website rather than just through the App Store.
Apple says about it developer website: “Web Distribution is now available on iOS 17.5 beta 2 and App Store Connect.” It then explains what’s available to developers by saying, “Web Distribution allows authorized developers to distribute their iOS apps to users in the European Union (EU) directly from a developer-owned website. Apple will provide developers with access to APIs that make it easier to distribute their apps over the web, integrate system functionality, and back up and restore users’ apps, as long as they meet certain requirements designed to protect users and the integrity of the platform”.
What else is coming?
There’s already news of improvements coming to AirTag—full details here. There are design changes for the Podcasts widget and other things, which you can read about here.
When will iOS 17.5 General Release be released?
It looks like the next software is still on track to match my prediction from early April. It is believed that the next Apple iPad Pro and possibly the iPad Air will be released in early May, and it seems that the new software could be timed in parallel. I still stand by my suggestion that the first week of May is likely for iOS 17.5, although the second week is also an option.
Which gives us Tuesday May 7th or Wednesday May 8th as favourites, but Monday May 13th or Tuesday May 14th is also possible. Stay tuned.
