Apple has kicked off the beta testing phase for iOS 17.5, inviting developers and public beta users to try out the upcoming update. Anticipated to roll out sometime next month, iOS 17.5 introduces a range of new features and tweaks, with a likely release date slated for mid-May.
What’s in iOS 17.5?
Although not as monumental as some of its predecessors, iOS 17.5 packs several noteworthy additions and enhancements.
Web Distribution
A notable addition within the European Union is the introduction of web distribution, allowing users to install apps directly from developers’ websites. Apple introduced this feature last month, enabling developers to distribute iOS apps straight from their own domains.
To implement this feature, developers need to agree to the updated App Store business terms, including paying a Core Technology Fee of €0.50 for every first annual installation exceeding one million within the previous 12 months.
Apps distributed via the web must still adhere to Apple’s notarization guidelines and can only be installed from domains registered in App Store Connect. Apple will provide developers with APIs to integrate this functionality seamlessly.
While iOS 17.5 beta 1 lays the groundwork, no developers are currently offering their apps through Web Distribution. This is expected to change upon the public release of iOS 17.5 in May.
iOS 17.5 appears to introduce a new system focused on anti-stalking capabilities for accessories like AirTags. Following Apple’s collaboration with Google on an industry specification to combat unwanted tracking, the Find My app now includes strings hinting at the ability to identify and disable tracking accessories, even those not certified by Apple or Find My.
